R.C.BUCKNERS 

LIFE OF 
FAITH Afc WORKS 




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R. C. BUCKNER'S 
LIFE OF FAITH AND WORKS 



Comprising the Story of the Career o£ the Preacher, Editor, 

Presiding Officer, Philanthropist, and Founder 

of Buckner Orphans Home 



BY 

J. B. CRANFILL AND J. L. WALKER 



DALLAS, TEXAS 

BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 

1915 






Copyright, 1914, 

BY 

BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 



JAN 22 uia 



CIA391447 



«*J aJUc^!XA/^v^ . 








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FOREWORD 



This volume is the joint work of J. L. Walker and J. B. 
Cranfill. It is but just to say that the major part of the labor 
on the work has been done by J. L. Walker. As most of the 
friends of the Buckner Orphans Home already know, T. L. 
Walker has been chaplain of the Home for quite a while. He is 
a man of exceptional qualities as a writer and historian, and it 
thus fell out that on account of his intimate familiarity with 
Texas Baptist history and his daily association with R. C. Buck- 
ner, he was in position to discover, enucleate and collate the 
salient facts of this great man's life at first hand. As this fore- 
word is being written wholly by J. B. Cranfill, it may not be 
amiss here to say that J. L. Walker is a man of kingly Christian 
character, gentle, loving, self-sacrificing and capable. 

Of course, the writer of this foreword has labored much on 
this volume in the matter of revision and arrangement and has 
written a part of this Biography, but, as stated, the major part 
has been written by J. L. Walker. 

The funds for the publication of this work have been fur- 
nished by private individuals. Not a cent of it has come from 
the treasury of the Buckner Orphans Home. It is the wish of 
R. C. Buckner, however, and of the authors that every dollar of 
the profit made on the book shall go to the Orphans Home. 
When enough of the books are sold to pay for the initial cost 
of publication, all of the succeeding income will go to the help 
and maintenance of the orphan work. The copyright belongs 
to Buckner Orphans Home as well as the proceeds. 

At the special request of the authors, R. C. Buckner has 
written the dedication of the book. This was thought most ap- 
propriate, and we trust it will be approved by the great public, 
who at last are the arbiters of the destiny of the work itself. 



INTRODUCTION 



Instead of a formal introduction, written by one friend, it 
was the decision of the authors to present estimates of R. C. 
Buckner's life and labors from a number of leaders in our South- 
ern Baptist work. The following are given, our regret being 
that we could not incorporate a larger number: 



AjiZju ASLAK&&0 t& InuCfr oa+jL One*** Audt*i~ 



viii Life of R. C. Buckner 






Introduction 



IX 



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x Life of R. C. Buckner 

When the authors wrote to Dr. B. H. Carroll at Fort Worth 
for some words as a part of the Introduction to this volume, he 
was too ill to respond. Later, the subject of this Biography, 
R. C. Buckner, and one of the authors, J. B. Cranfill, went to 
Fort Worth to see Dr. Carroll, who was held in his bed on 
account of his long and painful illness. When we reached his 
room, after he had greeted both of us with a smile, cordial 
words and a warm handclasp, he held on to R. C. Buckner' s 
hand, and looking steadily into his eyes, he said: 

"I am glad you came to see me. I had rather see you than 
any other man in the world. I have some things to say. I 
love you with undying devotion. Your life has been given un- 
stintedly to the Bible, to Jesus Christ and to orphan children. 
You have never faltered in preaching the whole truth, and have 
always stood for peace and spirituality among the brethren. As 
a peacemaker you have always been gentle and equally fair to 
all on both sides of every question, urging peace and spirituality, 
but without the least sacrifice of any fact or principle. Our close 
personal acquaintance began at Fairfield at the second annual 
session of the Baptist General Association of Texas in 1870. 

"Wm. Henry Parks was pastor of the church at Fairfield, and 
you remained and conducted a protracted meeting, doing all 
the preaching. The meeting was characterized by a glorious 
revival. You declared it as one of your purposes to try to start 
the newly organized General Association out on a career of peace 
and spirituality, and all through its history these principles were 
dominant. Afterwards your many years as president of that 
body seemed ever to make prominent these two graces, but with- 
out any compromise of principle. And after the consolidation 
of the General Association and the old State Convention, in 
your presidency of twenty years the same love of the brethren 
and the same example and advocacy of peace and spirituality 
characterized your life and powerfully impressed and influenced 
the body. 



Introduction xi 

"I have wanted to write about all, but I am not able to write. 
I want Brother Cranfill, who now hears these words, to repro- 
duce them in writing for some place in your Biography. 

"There has never been the least discord between us in all 
our years of close acquaintance, and never the least difference 
in our views on doctrines and practical Christianity. I believe 
in you and I love you as a friend, a brother, a preacher and as 
a presiding officer, but above all these I love you because you 
love our Bible, our Savior and the little children, and for what 
you have done for the orphans. 

"We shall meet in heaven. I have been afflicted so long and 
am so near the border land that the veil is very thin. I can 
see through it. I feel that I breathe the atmosphere of heaven 
and I regale myself on its sweet fragrance. There will be no 
difficulty about us recognizing one another in Heaven. Goodbye." 



AN ESTIMATE OF R. C. BUCKNER 



I have known Dr. Buckner since my earliest manhood, as 
Christian, as preacher, as friend, and as denominational leader. 

As a Christian, he is and always has been above reproach; a 
man of rare spirit and highest integrity. As a preacher, he is 
clear, scriptural, evangelical, fervid and soulful, moving his 
hearers with a gospel of power. As friend, he is loyal and 
steadfast, appreciative and faithful. As denominational leader, 
he is sympathetic with his brethren, broad in his outlook, cour- 
ageous in the expression of his convictions, missionary in spirit, 
and a heart great enough to receive inside of it every orphan 
child on earth. 

E. Y. Mullins. 

Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Ky. 



xii Life of R. C. Buckner 

A NOBLEMAN INDEED 

Dr. R. C. Buckner, honored much above most men, is indeed 
a nobleman among all who know him. In character and achieve- 
ment he has made a record of eighty-two years not only untar- 
nished but growing brighter to the end. Through all the years 
he has been to us all an inspiration and something of a model 
in Christian bearing and usefulness. His works go on before 
and will also follow after. 

I greatly honor him and earnestly pray that the glory of our 
Father's face, in great richness and fullness, may be upon him, 
and upon his noble wife, and upon all he counts dear — shining 
brighter and brighter to the perfect day. 

J. M. Frost. 

Rooms of the Sunday School Board, Nashville, Tenn. 

R. C. BUCKNER, THE LEADER 

The multitudes of friends of Dr. Buckner will be greatly 
rejoiced by the announcement that we are to have his biography. 

He is a most remarkable man. For half a century he has 
been one of the great leaders of Texas Baptists. He has had 
a large part in the promotion of almost every denominational 
institution Baptists have in Texas. The Buckner Orphans 
Home, the Women's Training School in Fort Worth, and the 
Baptist Memorial Sanitarium in Dallas, are largely the out- 
growth of his great mind and heart. Every school and every- 
thing else we have has had his unstinted support. 

He has been president of the Baptist General Convention for 
twenty years and carried it through times and scenes that 
for tragic importance were never surpassed in the annals of 
Baptist history. As a preacher, newspaper writer, pastor, phi- 
lanthropist, and promoter of great and good works he stands 



Introduction xiii 

among the foremost that Baptists have produced. He is now 
eighty-two years old, and possesses wonderful vigor of both 
body and intellect. We all hope he will be with us many years 
yet and confidently believe that his biography wherever read will 
inspire hundreds to emulate the example of his noble life. 

F. M. McConnell. 
Rooms of the State Mission Board, Dallas, Texas. 



DR. ROBERT COOK BUCKNER 

I feel that I can do no better as my contribution to this volume 
than to recite some history. 

On April 21, 1903, there was held in Baylor University what 
perhaps was the greatest academic occasion ever attempted in 
the State. It was the dedication of the "F. L. Carroll Chapel 
and Library" and the "Geo. W. Carroll Science Hall," gifts 
respectively of the men whose names they bear. 

To give added dignity to this day — a Texas Anniversary — 
to show courtesy to the gentlemen whose munificence made it 
possible, and withal to honor itself, Baylor conferred upon 
eighteen men honorary degrees. The eighteen men stood in 
line on the rostrum, each as his name was called coming forward 
to receive his diploma. As the subject of this sketch stepped 
to the front, the president of the university handed him a 
diploma, speaking the following words as he did so: 

"Robert Cook Buckner: When, sir, your friends shall speak 
the last praiseworthy words about you, they will be more desira- 
ble than the crown worn by the Czar of Russia. We hail you 
today as the foster father of more children than perhaps any 
man in America, as the friend of the helpless and the fatherless, 
as one powerful in utilizing the forces of this world for the pro- 
motion of the spirit of fraternity, as a preacher honored of God, 
as convention executive honored of men. Sir, for your pre- 



xiv Life of R. C. Buckner 

eminence in so many fields of human service, it delights me, the 
president, upon the authority of the Commonwealth of Texas 
committed to the trustees of Baylor University, and upon the 
unanimous recommendation of the Faculty thereof, to confer 
upon you the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws and to admit 
you to all its rights and privileges wherever in the world you 
may go." S. P. Brooks. 

Baylor University, Waco, Texas. 



BROTHER GREATHEART 

Dr. Buckner is our Brother Greatheart. He has great capac- 
ity for love. This has been the impelling force in his life work 
for helpless children and the magnetic quality which irresistibly 
draws to him these little creatures of strong intuition. He has 
literally loved into fame, as he has into great usefulness in holiest 
service. Everybody recognizes his greatness of heart and honors 
him for it. He is indeed so pre-eminent in this grace that the 
casual observer is likely not to discover other gifts which entitle 
him to distinction. He is a great lover, but he is also as fresh 
and vigorous a thinker as any man of his age that I ever knew. 
His public speech is rarely characterized by a dull or common- 
place remark. This has been to me a growing surprise upon 
closer acquaintance with him and study of the man. He is, too, 
a refutation of the hackneyed charge that preachers are poor 
business men. He is one of the best business men in Texas, as 
is shown by his easy and successful management of the great 
institution he has built up and conducts. This institution will 
stand as a great monument to his memory and his praises will 
be sounded half around the world by those who have shared its 
benefits and been blessed with his care. 

J. F. Love. 

Foreign Mission Rooms, Richmond, Va. 



Introduction xv 

CONCERNING DR. R. C. BUCKNER 

Dr. R. C. Buckner is one of the most useful men of his gen- 
eration. His coming to Texas at an early day has proven to be a 
great strength to the State. He brought with him rich natural 
endowments and good preparation, which made him a leader. He 
took his place naturally with a remarkably able set of men, who 
laid the foundation of all that is best in civil and religious life in 
Texas. His mind is initiative, constructive, circumspect and tena- 
cious. His working power is remarkable. For a period much 
longer than an ordinary life, Dr. Buckner has contributed the 
forces of an extraordinary manhood to the progress of humanity 
and Christianity mainly, but not entirely in Texas. While he 
has been identified with practically every good move among Bap- 
tists and has held many positions of trust and usefulness, he is 
most widely known as founder and manager of the Buckner Or- 
phans Home. The work done in connection with this noble insti- 
tution for the helpless will always endear him to the heart of hu- 
manity. He has put it on enduring foundations so that he will 
project his life far into coming generations. Such a life is rarely 
lived. 

J. B. Gambrell. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 



PAGE 

Dedication iii 

Foreword v 

Introduction vi-x;v 

Estimates of R. C. Buckner. 

Chapter I. — Many-Sided Man 1-6 

Completely rounded life — to help the orphans. 

Chapter II. — Daniel and Mary Buckner 7-1 1 

Good Baptist stock — Liberated and ordained — Birth of R. C. 
Buckner. 

Chapter III. — A Happy Family 12-15 

Six happy children — Molding hand of mother — Dream come true 
— Good place for children. 

Chapter IV. — Boyhood and Youth 16-19 

Early start in books — First Bible — Boy-life at Somerset — 
First gun. 

Chapter V.~ Early in God's Service 20-25 

Regenerated — Bible study — Favorable environment — Intoxicated 
judge. 

Chapter VI. — Education 26-31 

Georgetown College — Preceptor Blewett — Chicken story — What 
others think. 

xvii 



xviii Life of R. C. Buckner 

page 

Chapter VII. — Early Labors in Kentucky 32-42 

Meeting, Fishing Creeks — Separated to the work — Church 
planted — Albany, Owensboro and Salvisa pastorates. 

Chapter VIII. — Texas and First Steps 43"47 

Texas — Ladonia Academy — Debate — Meeting at Brocken school 
house. 

Chapter IX. — Paris Baptist Church and Pastorate 48-53 

Full time — New meeting house — Calico bonnet church — Band- 
box preacher. 

Chapter X. — Organized and Doing 54 _ 59 

Prayer meeting — Sunday school — First Ladies' Aid Society — 
Church committees. 

Chapter XL — A Widening Influence 60-65 

General Association — Report, Home Missions — General agent. 

Chapter XII. — Strengthening the Work at Paris. . 66-71 
Duty — Rejuvenating church — New Year's Sermon 

Chapter XIIL— Business Ventures 72-77 

Pocket change — Gold watch on credit — "Religious Messenger" 
— "Texas Baptist" — Business maxims. 

Chapter XIV.— The Texas Baptist 78-84 

Edited on the wing — Dr. B. H. Carroll, associate — Ongoing of 
Texas Baptist. 

Chapter XV.— Origin of Buckner Orphans Home. . . 85-91 
Deacon's Convention— "Just to give this a start"— Opposition- 
Charter — Site purchased. 

Chapter XVI. — Among the Brethren 92-99 

Meeting at Fairfield— Awakening Major Penn— Indian missions 
— Sunday school work — Aged ministers. 



Contents xix 

PAGE 

Chapter XVII. — Buckner Orphans Home, Progress. . 100-107 
More land — "God bless the people" — Big picnic — Death of 
H. F. Buckner — Glimpses of the Home. 

Chapter XVIII. — Leadership 108-1 15 

President General Association — Sweeping vindication — Re-ap- 
pointed Superintendent of missions. 

Chapter XIX. — Exactly What God Would Have. . .116-123 
Put on salary— Was it a burden ?— Without condition — The 
people believed in Buckner. 

Chapter XX. — Fields Multiply 124-133 

Homes for children, newsboys' tea — Humane society— Charities 
and correction — National Prison Association — Deserted wife 
helped. 

Chapter XXI. — Epistolary Correspondence 1 34-141 

Interesting excerpts from Buckner's letters. 

Chapter XXII. — Where Is the Limit? 142-15 1 

Touching incident — Ladies' Aid — Orphans Home societies — 
Saloons and jails— Helping Baylor — Hands and heart full. 

Chapter XXIII. — Thirty Years President 152-162 

President Sunday School Convention — President General As- 
sociation — President General Convention. 

Chapter XXIV. — Some Historic Conventions. 163-171 

Belton, Houston, San Antonio and Waco Conventions — Historic 
ruling. 

Chapter XXV. — Speech, National Prison Associa- 
tion 172-176 

Preventive work — Take care of the children — Family — Orphans. 

Chapter XXVI. — Buckner Orphans Home 177-188 

Sunshine, shadow, sunshine — Sixty-fourth birthday — Awful 
hour — How the children are employed. 



xx Life of R. C. Buckner 

PAGE 

Chapter XXVII. — In Galveston After the Storm . . . 189-197 
Communication cut off — In Galveston — Boy rescued — Returning 
with orphans. 

Chapter XXVIII. — Orphans Home Board Surprised 198 

Chapter XXIX. — Caring for the Sick Orphans 199-205 

Chapter XXX. — Caring for the Aged 206-210 

Cottages — "Ye did it unto me" — Contentment. 

Chapter XXXI. — Missionary Training School 211-220 

Organization services — Wide welcome — Women ardent sup- 
porters — Dirt breaking. 

Chapter XXXII. — Memorial Sanitarium 221-229 

Beginning — Buckner's help — New Building — Resigns presidency. 

Chapter XXXIII. — Buckner as Peacemaker 230-240 

Settling associational troubles — Embarrassing — With Article — 
Louisville paper trouble. 

Chapter XXXIV. — Helping the Colored People 241-247 

First North Texas Negro Association — High School — Baptizing 
and marrying — A. R. Griggs — Colored orphanage. 

Chapter XXXV. — Children's Bureau Bill 248-253 

Two doctrines — Washington Conference — Bill passed — All eyes 
on Buckner — Grateful company. 

Chapter XXXVI. — Address in Advocacy of Orphans 

Homes as Institutions . . .254-262 

Right to exist — Buckner Orphans Home — What do we do for 
them? 

Chapter XXXVII. — Faith and Works 263-275 

The Mrs. M. B. Roots Cottage — Faith in God and men — The 
R. C. Buckner Knob — On lookout for orphans — Manna 
Hall — Dairy farm. 



Contents xxi 

PAGE 

Chapter XXXVIIL— One Busy Lord's Day 276-281 

Daybreak — In -culinary department — Breakfast — Home Chapel — 
Family talk and sermon — Dinner — Bible School — Evening 
service and baptizing. 

Chapter XXXIX. — Literary Productions, Sermons, 

Etc 282-315 

Chapter XL. — Out of the Ordinary 316-322 

Chapter XLI. — Around the World 3 2 3~333 

Good-bye sermon — Hawaii — Japan — On East China Sea — Mis- 
sion Compound — Missionary Conference — Sightseeing — In- 
terior China — Homeward. 

Chapter XLII. — Closing Incidents 334~34i 

Retires from Presidency of Baptist General Convention — 
Transfer of Buckner Orphans Home. 

Afterword 342-359 



CHAPTER I 



MANY-SIDED MAN 



While it is the purpose of this narrative to set forth in some 
detail the history of the life of R. C. Buckner, it is impossible in 
so brief a compass to record all the deeds that have made up 
the warp and woof of his eventful career. The biographers, 
therefore, have been shut up to a choice of some of the material 
in which his life has been so rich, and the sheaves that have 
thus been garnered are now given to the public. 

R. C. Buckner is a man in a class by himself. His life has 
been a many-sided one. As a preacher, as a philanthropist, as 
an editor, as a writer, as a kingly business man, and as an or- 
ganizer of virile forces in the Master's service, he has achieved 
distinction and renown. Of him it can be said that he has been 
a marked success in every line of life to which he has devoted his 
attention. If he had given all of his life to the work of the 
ministry, thus spending it in the rich pastoral service which he 
gave to a few churches in his earlier years, he would have left 
an impress upon Texas and the South that would have endured 
until the coming of the King. If he had remained permanently 
in journalism, in which he shone so resplendently during the 
few years that he gave to that most useful service, he would 
have made a name as an editor and writer that would have lived 
and blessed mankind through all the after years. If he had 
done nothing but give his entire life to orphan work, had never 
preached and had never been an editor, he would have attained 
to heights in this specific line of heroic endeavor that have never 
been reached by any other Southern Baptist philanthropist. If 

1 



2 Life of R. C. Buckner 

he had turned his heart and thought toward business and given 
of all of his time to the co-ordination of commercial and financial 
assets and forces, he would have been one of the South's great 
men of wealth, for he has shown his ability in this field in a 
manner to command the admiration of all. , If, passing by all of 
these great fields of activity, he had taken tr^e oversight and 
management of some great enterprise, so thajt his talents of 
organization could have had free exercise, he would have been 
a possibility as a great railroad magnate or as the creator of 
some colossal mercantile establishment or bank. When we con- 
sider that he has had such marvelous success in every line that 
has been named, we can but contemplate this remarkable man 
with the sincerest admiration. 

Above everything, R. C. Buckner has been a gentle-hearted, 
loving, faithful, sincere, active, self-sacrificing Christian. The 
question that flushed his heart when he first en. ^d the Chris- 
tian ministry in the dear old Kentucky-land was not "How can 
I achieve renown or glory or wealth or fame ?" but it was, "How 
can I do the most for God and my fellow men ?" This has been 
the key-note of his remarkable and transcendently useful life. 

A study of the details of his life as unfolded in the pages 
that follow will reveal to the observant mind the fact that from 
the days of his early boyhood he was in preparation for the trials 
and triumphs that have been so manifest throughout all his pil- 
grimage. He was born to be a leader, a philanthropist and a 
winsome and an able preacher. None of this was accidental. 
It takes a thousand years to make a man, and while this biog- 
raphy reaches no further back than the immediate parents of 
the subject of this sketch, it is obvious that there must have 
been fortuitous conditions conspiring together covering hundreds 
of years to produce such a man as R. C. Buckner. 

Of course, when all is said, God makes men. God makes 
men for specific purposes. He begins the making of men in the 
remote antiquity of history and looking down the corridors of 



Completely Rounded Life 3 

time, He suits the man to the age in which he is born and to the 
mission to which aforetime God dedicated the man's life. 

Let it be said of R. C. Buckner that in every relation he has 
managed his life well. He has coupled wisdom with aggressive- 
ness, gentleness with courage, integrity with acumen, religion 
with business, and prudence with aggressiveness. His is one of 
the most completely rounded lives that have every been known to 
the writer of these lines. He has made no blunders; he has 
shown no excesses; he has never been guilty of intolerance; he 
has bridled his temper and his tongue; he has curbed his pas- 
sions; and he has donebefittingly everything he has achieved. 

One of the chief characteristics of this great man is his fidel- 
ity. When he took to his heart the great army of lonely orphan 
children scattered throughout Texas and the South, he became 
married to the orphan work, and through sunshine and storm, 
evil as well a. J ^ood report, and in every vicissitude that has 
transpired since this great work was begun, he has had a thought 
and a care in every one of his relations and all of his varied 
environments for the orphans thus committed to his hands. 

But that is not all. He has been to every friend a strong 
right arm of power, support and confidence. He is no fair- 
weather friend. He lingers by his friends in their adversity as 
well as in their days of strength and success, and through all the 
mutations of life he proves himself the partial, kind, gentle, gen- 
erous-hearted friend, no matter whether the skies are bright, or 
whether lowering thunders roll. 

Among the manifold characteristics of this great man has 
been his long life of happiness and Christian good cheer. Al- 
though, as these words are penned, he is nearing his eighty-second 
birthday, there is not now living any man, woman, or child who 
ever saw R. C. Buckner hopelessly discouraged. He has smiled 
a Christian smile nearly 82 years long. Everywhere, anywhere, 
in every relation of his great life he has carried with him the 
sunshine of Christian optimism and has met his friends and 



4 Life of R. C. Buckner 

brethren with a hearty handgrasp and a cheery smile that doeth 
good like a medicine. If this writer were asked to name the 
one great characteristic in R. C. Buckner's life that differentiates 
him from other men this chronicler has known, it is not certain 
that this one monumental element in his life — that of happiness 
and buoyancy of spirit — would not thus be named. 

In addition to all of his other mountain-peaks of character, 
R. C. Buckner is one of the most devoted and genuine mission- 
ary spirits this writer has ever known. Through the closing 
years of his strength the beloved R. J. Willingham, so long the 
capable leader in the Foreign Mission work of the Southern 
Baptist Convention, would, every time he met R. C. Buckner, 
throw his great loving arms around him and say, "And this is 
Brother Buckner, the father of missionaries and the grandfather 
of missionaries!" 

It thus fell out that in his eighty-first year R. C. Buckner, to- 
gether with his beloved and faithful wife and gentle-hearted 
daughter, sailed round the world to visit Dr. Buckner's son, 
grandson, and other grandchildren in the far-off mission fields 
of China. This achievement is without parallel in Baptist his- 
tory. Not only did he gloriously undertake the journey, but it 
was joyfully completed and he returned to Texas happy in the 
contemplation of the stirring events of which he had been so 
conspicuous a factor, and buoyant and lighthearted in the re- 
assumption of the gigantic work to which he has turned the 
great talents that God gave him during the latter years of his 
eventful life. 

This biography has been written for a purpose. Certainly 
the purpose is not to make money for the subject of this sketch 
or for its writers. The men who have prepared this sketch 
have done every atom of the work purely as a labor of love. 
They sought no remuneration and would absolutely decline such 
paltry recognition of their services with the feeling that if such 
remuneration were tendered, it would be a reflection upon their 



Completely Rounded Life 5 

devotion to a great man and a noble cause. Dr. Buckner himself 
would not accept a penny of profit on the sale of this work. 
Every dollar that it brings will be donated to the Buckner 
Orphans Home. So, it has been with no financial gain in view 
that the work has been prepared and is thus given to the public. 

It has been written purely in a spirit of helpfulness. No 
man has ever lived in Texas just the life that has been lived by 
R. C. Buckner. He was a pioneer in orphan work in our great 
State. As founder and manager of the Buckner Orphans Home, 
he has led in the creation of an orphanage, the largest in the 
whole Western hemisphere. It is to help the orphan work and 
to help and hearten every man and woman, young and old, to 
whom these pages shall come, who has a care for the lonely, suf- 
fering, needy souls who cry out on every hand for Christian 
help and sympathy. 

Most profoundly does the writer of these words believe that 
wherever this life of R. C. Buckner is read, there will rise up 
young men and women to say to the Master Workman, "Here 
am I; send me." No one can read the life of R. C. Buckner 
without a kindling of holy zeal to give the best that is in him 
to God. 

Much more could be said, but this writer feels that the indul- 
gent reader is impatient to begin the perusal of the chapters that 
follow. They await his contemplation and thus this first chapter 
must reach its close. 

It will perhaps not be thought amiss for this writer to add 
that he has counted it one of the greatest joys and privileges of 
his life to number R. C. Buckner among his most intimate 
friends. When the dear man was sailing in far-off seas, tempest- 
tossed by adverse currents, and feeling that possibly he would 
never again reach his native heath, he sent a letter to the writer 
of these words, written in his own dear hand, that will be treas- 
ured as long as life lasts. It has been an unmixed blessing to 
the one that pens these words to have had the pleasure and the 



Life of R. C. Buckner 



joy of intimate relationship with this great, good man, covering 
a period of almost an average lifetime. And now it is with a 
feeling that cannot be put in words that this book is given to the 
public. How the heart of the one who sets these words down 
rejoices to have had a part in such a cherished task as this! 

God speed these pages and send them round the world to 
bless all to whom they shall come during the remaining days of 
the beloved subject of this biography, and to continue to bring 
light and hope and joy and inspiration to countless thousands of 
our young and old long after the beloved Dr. R. C. Buckner has 
been gathered to his fathers. This is his most cherished wish 
and in this hope and purpose his biographers most joyfully join. 



CHAPTER II 



DANIEL AND MARY BUCKNER 



Good Baptist Stock. — It was good for R. C. Buckner and the 
world that his parents were Daniel and Mary Buckner. For 
this he was always grateful. After his head was crowned with 
silver he wrote : 

"The life-blood of human kindness ever flowed freely in the 
veins of my marvelously patient mother; and tender sympathy 
for the poor and distressed filled my father's great preacher heart. 
He always kept open doors for the afflicted, by day and by 
night." 

Birth of Daniel Buckner. — A baby boy, Heaven-sent, arrived 
at the Christian home of Henry Buckner, September 30, 1801. 
A sturdy farmer in Lawrence District, South Carolina, of the 
old-time honest type, was this Henry Buckner. The boy was 
named Daniel in honor of the father's friend, Daniel Boone, of 
Kentucky fame. 

When young Daniel was a romping boy of six summers, his 
father crossed the Great Smoky Range into Cooke County, East 
Tennessee, and again engaged in farming, teaching his sons farm 
work. 

Surrendered to God. — The crowning day of Daniel Buckner's 
life was the day on which he gave God his heart. This oc- 
curred at the age of sixteen, and ever and forever afterward he 
was on God's side. Jesus Christ was now to him both Savior 
and Lord. He walked twelve miles to Lick Creek church, now 
Warrensburg, related his experience of grace, and was baptized 
in Nolichucky River by Elder Caleb Witt. Soon he transferred 
his membership to Big Pigeon church, near Newport. 

Marries Mary Hampton. — At seventeen years of age he was 
married to Mary Hampton, of the Hampton family of South 

7 



8 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Carolina, and a relative of Gen. Wade Hampton. She was a 
superior woman, better educated than her husband, and aided 
him no little in his efforts to acquire learning. The well-known 
minister of the gospel, A. J. Holt, D. D., was her grandson. 
Hear him: "All my life, Grandmother Buckner has been my 
ideal woman, pious, cheerful, intelligent, diligent, wise." She 
was born in South Carolina in 1799. 

Liberated and Ordained. — In 1823, Big Pigeon church liber- 
ated Daniel Buckner, authorizing him to preach the gospel. And 
he did preach with unction and acceptance during a spiritual 
awakening that continued a whole year. 

He afterwards moved to Monroe County and was ordained 
by Chestnut church of that county to the full work of the gospel 
ministry. The ordaining elders were George Snider and James 
D. Sewell. 

Church Planted at Madisonville. — His heart was turned to 
Madisonville, the county town, where no Baptist preacher's voice 
had yet been heard. Here a fruitful meeting was held and many 
baptized. Assisted by Elder George Snider, he constituted the 
Madisonville Baptist Church in 1827 with twenty-seven members. 
Then, also through his labors, Ebenezer Church was constituted, 
and he served these two churches seven years, building them up 
in the faith, and gathering into their folds many souls. 

Of the number baptized at Madisonville, four became dis- 
tinguished preachers. One was his own son, Henry Frieland, 
afterwards missionary to the Creek Indians. Another was a 
young lawyer named Bradley Kimbrough, and still another was 
Sam P. Henderson, D. D., for many years a leading preacher in 
Alabama. A good meeting-house was erected at Madisonville 
during this pastorate. 

Birth of R. C. Buckner. — Robert Cooke Buckner was born 
at Madisonville, Tenn., January 3, 1833. The log-house in 
which he was born now stands beside the stately chapel at Buck- 
ner Orphans Home. It was first built at Madisonville about 1820. 



Daniel and Mary Buckner 9 

Falling of the Stars. — When Robert was a baby, his brother 
Henry rose early one morning, and running to his mother much 
frightened, he exclaimed: "Oh, mother, the world is coming to 
an end! The stars are falling I" The followers of William 
Miller had proclaimed throughout the country that the world 
would soon come to an end. When Henry startled his mother 
with those words, she peered out the window a moment and 
then clapped her hands, saying, "Thank God, I am ready." And 
she was. The strange phenomenon known as the "Falling of 
the Stars" was a vivid meteoric shower, extant over many states. 
The Seventh Day Adventists still point to that event as a "sign 
of the end." 

The Denominational "Split" — Now came the strenuous days 
when the Baptist people divided in many states, part standing 
for Missions, Sunday Schools and an educated ministry, and 
part opposing these with all their might. Daniel Buckner took 
his stand with the missionaries. Rev. S. P. Henderson, who was 
on the ground, writing some years afterward, had this to say: 
"Rev. Daniel Buckner espoused the cause of Missions with all 
his zeal, and became one of the leaders of his brethren on that 
question in all East Tennessee. He and such noble spirits as 
Bradley Kimbrough, James Kennon, Samuel Love, Richard and 
Charles Taliaferro, traveled over East Tennessee, steadying the 
ranks of the wavering, so that when the division came, the 
majority stood by the old standard." 

Pastor in McMinn County. — In 1835 Elder Buckner was 
called to and accepted Zion Hill church in McMinn County. 
This was a happy pastorate, with good results. Years afterward 
he referred to this work with much joy: "The Zion Hill church 
gave me a fine horse, and I rode down many a wild goat, and 
gathered in many a wandering sheep." All the year of this pas- 
torate the church was in a state of revival, and more than one 
hundred were baptized, one of whom, Wilson Chapman, became 
a useful minister of the gospel. 



10 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Missionary of the Convention. — His brethren would not allow 
him to remain with the good work at Zion Hill. It was a trying 
time, and he was needed in a wider work. Accordingly, in 
1836 Elder Buckner moved to Big Spring, and the family joined 
the Big Spring church. He was now ready for his wider work. 
But he must not neglect his promising young son, Henry Frie- 
land, and this son was immediately put in Maryville Seminary 
(Old School Presbyterian). There was not at that time a 
Baptist High School in the State. With Big Spring as head- 
quarters, he accepted an appointment of the Tennessee Baptist 
State Convention to labor as a missionary. The salary was fixed 
at $15 a month. It was his first salary, and was thought good 
compensation in those early days. 

Missionary Leaven in Seventeen Counties. — The Convention 
had been organized only three years, and to many churches such 
a step seemed an innovation foreboding only evil. There was 
much opposition to it, and the Big Spring church stood with the 
opposition. Elder Buckner went to his work as missionary with 
apostolic zeal. He shall tell it himself: 

"I was the first to introduce the missionary leaven into seven- 
teen counties. My first appointment kept me from home two 
and one-half months. Sometimes I preached in school-houses, 
then in the woods, then in a family room in some brother's home, 
and sometimes in meeting-houses. Such was the opposition to 
the enterprise that some churches closed their doors against me. 
Seldom could I get a brother to take a collection, which was suffi- 
cient apology for me to take it myself. Soon after I got home 
from this missionary tour, the church at Big Spring preferred 
charges against me." 

Turned Out of the Church. — Big Spring church believed their 
member, Daniel Buckner, had gone wrong; that he was incor- 
rigible, and that his example was dangerous. He even dared to 
wear boots ! They called him "the booted apostle." Following 
are the charges read before the church : 



Daniel and Mary Buckner 11 

1. He is a hireling and not a true shepherd. 

2. He has defied God in that he is educating his son to 
preach. 

3. He is a money-hunter. 

They gravely found him guilty on every count, and solemnly 
withdrew fellowship from him! They offered to give his wife 
a letter of dismissal, saying they had nothing against her, but 
she declined, protesting that she had something against them, 
and proclaimed in open conference that she and her son Frieland 
believed the same doctrine for which they had withdrawn fel- 
lowship from her husband. Elder Buckner and family then went 
to Caussauga church, Polk County, presented a copy of the 
charges, and were joyfully received, the same as if they had 
presented a letter. 

In Washington County. — It was now thought wise to transfer 
his labors to Washington County, one hundred and fifty miles 
to the northeast. He was still under the appointment of the State 
Board. The people in Washington knew him, as he had but 
recently traversed that county and all the other counties touching 
North Carolina, both east and west of French Broad river, and 
all south of the Tennessee River. In Washington were many 
staunch friends of missions and progress. The people received 
him with joy and gave him a comfortable home of fifty acres, for 
which he was thankful to the end of his days. Here he continued 
to spread the "mission leaven. ,, 

In Bradley County. — We next see Daniel Buckner at Cleve- 
land in Bradley County. He was clerk of the townsite company 
when the town was laid out. Assisted by his brother Burrow, he 
organized and built up the Cleveland church. Elder Burrow 
Buckner was a preacher of ability. Going to southwest Missouri, 
he evangelized several counties, baptizing large numbers and 
planting churches. After establishing the church at Cleveland, 
Daniel Buckner moved to Somerset, Kentucky, where he had a 
call from the saints and from God. 



CHAPTER III 



A HAPPY FAMILY 



The Buckners are of English origin. Their ancestors came 
to this country before the Revolutionary War and participated 
in that historic struggle. They established themselves in several 
States in the early decades of the Nineteenth Century. 

Six Happy Children. — Six beautiful children, the best gifts 
of God, jeweled the home of Daniel and Mary Buckner. The 
oldest, Henry Frieland, early gave evidence of ideals and prin- 
ciples of more than ordinary promise. This incident will illus- 
trate : When about thirteen years old, he was sent by his mother 
one day to consult a doctor with reference to the illness of one of 
the younger children. The doctor, who was not religious, was 
thoughtless enough to use some profane language in the presence 
of the boy; He was much shocked, and hastening home to his 
mother, said : "Oh, Mamma, that doctor is bad. He used cuss- 
words right before me." The second child, Harriet Caroline, 
while still a baby, went home to God. Bennett, the third child, 
was a fine looking, scampering boy, full of life and fun, and the 
joy of the household. Miriam Isabel came next. Baby Harriet 
had drooped like a tiny flower, and was blooming now in the 
Paradise of God, but an aching void was left in the mother's 
heart. Miriam's coming comforted her, and helped a little to 
fill that void. Robert Cooke was the fifth child, and Ann Has- 
seltine the youngest. "Aunt Annie," as the Buckner Orphan 
children love to call her, and her illustrious brother, Robert 
Cooke, are still living. All the children were born in Tennessee. 

The Joy of Their Parents. — There was love for father and 
mother and for one another, together with love of fun and sport 
in the lives of these happy children, such as made them the crown 

12 



A Happy Family 13 

of joy of their parents. There is no more beautiful or Divine 
thing this side of Heaven than an orderly, intelligent, Christian 
house, and such was that of Daniel Buckner and family. 

Molding Hand of Mother. — The father was much away from 
home, publishing abroad the good news of the Kingdom. The 
care of rearing and training the children fell mainly to the lot 
of their mother. But she was equal to the task. Love for God, 
love for her children, a patient spirit, a trained intellect and prac- 
tical sense are the high qualifications of motherhood. All these, 
Mrs. Buckner possessed. 

Along with the others, Robert Cooke came under the molding 
hand of this mother. The seeds of divine truth were planted in 
his heart from infancy. And whenever the fond father did have 
the sweet joy of spending a night at home, a chapter from the 
New Testament was read, and all the family carried into the very 
presence of the King on the wings of holy prayer. 

It was during Daniel Buckner' s seven years' harvest of souls 
at Madisonville, Tennessee, that his son, Robert Cooke, was born, 
January 3, 1833. As already said, the log-house in which the 
future "orphans' father" first saw the light, now stands on the 
grounds of Buckner Orphans Home. It is known among the 
orphan family as the "Tennessee House." 

A Dream Come True. — Mrs. Mamie Daudlin, who was reared 
in the Home from early childhood, daughter of "Aunt Sallie 
Britton," many years matron, dreamed one night that the identi- 
cal log-house in which "Father Buckner" was born stood on the 
grounds of Buckner Orphans Home. She told the dream to her 
mother and others, and there was desire to see it come true. The 
owner of the house, S. D. Reynolds, was willing to sell, and his 
price was accepted. Matrons and employees paid the money. 
Joe Dudley Buckner visited Madisonville, took down the house, 
shipped it, and it was rebuilt at the Home. This was in the 
autumn of 19 12. W. Morris Harrison, attorney at Sapulpa, 
Oklahoma, conducted the negotiations. 



14 Life of R. C. Buckner 

The broad open fireplace has been restored. The same old, 
old door with "latchstring on the outside" is in place. On the 
wall hangs a large "quilt square," of beautiful floral design, con- 
taining a thousand stitches, the work of Mary Buckner's hands. 

When the house was being re-built, "Father Buckner" wrote 
these lines in reply to a hundred little questions : 

"This is the house that I was born in 
Early on one winter mornin', 
Third day, first month after December, 
So they say — I don't remember. 
It was the year the stars all fell. 
What year was that? Say, who can tell?" 

Till this day the foregoing lines hang on the wall in "Tennessee 
House." 

This log-house was an object of unusual interest on January 
3, 19 1 3, when 2,000 people visited Buckner Orphans Home, in 
recognition of Dr. Buckner's eightieth birthday. 

Good Place for Children. — There is no better place for grow- 
ing children of strong bodies and strong intellects than the hill 
country of Tennessee and Kentucky. Development is usually 
rapid. It was so with the Buckner children. Before his mother 
was aware of it, Henry Frieland was almost grown. His mind 
grew with his body, and he made marvelous progress in learning. 
He early acquired a good foundation in Latin and Greek. He 
was ordained to preach before leaving Tennessee, and though 
but a youth, had a warm welcome in Kentucky, and was soon in 
the midst of a fruitful ministry. In 1841, when twenty-three 
years old, he began work as missionary of the General Associa- 
tion of Kentucky, doing acceptable work and growing in favor 
with God and men. In 1848, he became missionary to the Creek 
Indians, and went to Indian Territory in 185 1. During a life 
among the Indians of more than a third of a century, his labors 
were owned of God and crowned with glory. He made for the 



A Happy Family 15 

Creeks an alphabet and grammar, compiled for them a hymn 
book and translated much of the New Testament into their 
tongue. He baptized large numbers of them, and established 
among them schools and churches. He at length finished his 
course with joy and was buried at Eufaula, loved as a brother 
by all the Creek Tribe. 

Bennett's fine appearance and fine spirit made him a great 
favorite among all his friends. He was just such a Christian 
boy as parents delight to point to as examples for their sons. 
Just as he was turning into promising young manhood, he entered 
the United States Army, went away to the Mexican War, and 
gave his life in the service of his country. Breathing out his 
spirit in the City of Mexico, he was buried there, mourned by 
all who knew him. Mrs. M. P. Elliott nearly sixty years after- 
ward wrote to Dr. Buckner: "Your brother Bennett was about 
the finest looking of you all. His army comrades said he was 
the very soul of honor." 

Miriam became the wife of Elder Aaron Holt, a Baptist 
preacher and schoolteacher. This union gave to the world Ado- 
niram Judson Holt, D. D., Baptist preacher and leader in the 
foremost rank, known and beloved in every State. 

Ann Haseltine married L. R. Williams, a Christian gentleman 
of exemplary life and delightful spirit. He has been dead many 
years. 

Missionary Mantle. — The missionary mantle of Daniel Buck- 
ner fell on his son, Henry Frieland, missionary to the Indians; 
and his son, Robert Cooke, missionary in both Kentucky and 
Texas ; on his grandson, A. J. Holt, for a time missionary to the 
Seminole Indians ; on his grandson, Hal F. Buckner, missionary 
in Canton, China; and on his great-grandson, R. E. Beddoe, 
medical missionary and builder of the S. P. Ramseur hospital at 
Yingtak, China. It looks as if the Buckner missionary wave 
which started in the hills in East Tennessee is destined to go on, 
ever widening, till Jesus comes. 



CHAPTER IV 

BOYHOOD AND YOUTH 

Early Start in Books. — Robert was a real boy, wide-awake, 
running, laughing, shouting, and quick to learn. When but five 
years old, while the family still resided at Cleveland, Tennessee, 
he learned all the letters of the English alphabet in one day. They 
were taught to him by his brother, Henry Frieland. He was 
beginning to learn to read, when the family moved to Kentucky 
in the fall of 1838. The settlement in Kentucky was at Somerset 
in Pulaski County, where Daniel Buckner enjoyed a prosperous 
pastorate of fourteen happy years. 

School Books. — Young Robert's earliest recollection of books 
reaches back to early childhood, when Webster's "Blue Back 
Speller" was the corner-stone of all learning. Then came 
Smiley's Arithmetic, Kirkham's Grammar, and books in geog- 
raphy and history. The educational stairsteps known as "first 
grade," "second grade," etc., had not been invented in those days. 
Even the boy himself had not been "discovered" except among a 
limited number of families. Robert's father and mother kept 
the children at their books as much as time and their restless 
natures would permit. 

Brick Seminary at Somerset. — A school at Somerset doing 
a measure of academic work was known as the "Brick Semi- 
nary." The preceptors were William Fitzpatrick and H. A. 
Anderson. The boys called them "Uncle Billy Fitzpatrick" and 
"Scotchie Anderson." But all the same, "Uncle Billy" and 
"Scotchie" saw that the boys did creditable work. The Buckners 
were not long at Somerset before Robert's mother was engaged 
as assistant teacher in the Seminary, and Robert with the older 

16 



Boyhood and Youth 17 

children, except Henry Frieland, were placed in this school, 
where they got a good start. 

His First Bible. — Soon after the removal to Kentucky, Rob- 
ert's mother gave him a copy of the Scriptures. Robert was 
pleased with his Bible, and at once set about its study. He was 
assisted by his mother, who taught him how to use "Butter- 
worth's Concordance," the identical copy of which he still pos- 
sesses. Careful perusal of the English Bible was thought to be 
necessary if one would become a good reader. The fine old 
hymns of his father's hymn-book were also read by the boy with 
delight and profit, and a good store of truth and metaphor from 
the Bible and hymn-book gave commanding strength to his 
intellect and diction through all the lengthened years of his 
useful life. 

Boy-life at Somerset. — Work and study with intervals of free- 
dom, sport, hunting and fishing, made boy-life worth while in 
and around Somerset. Within proper restrictions, Bennett and 
Robert were allowed to ramble with the others. Somerset with 
a population of near seven hundred at that time, teemed with 
boys, as did the settlements in the country, and there was no end 
to their good times. Many of these boys developed into the high- 
est type of Christian manhood, and lived far down to the ripe age 
of silver crowns and glory. And even their early boyhood excur- 
sions remained as golden pictures in their memories. L. D. 
Porch, an old Somerset boy, became a wholesale merchant in 
Louisville. Another, Brent Girdler, became a hardware mer- 
chant in Louisville. Will Curd became an eminent lawyer and 
judge in Somerset. Another, familiarly known as Buck Taylor, 
became a preacher of great usefulness over all that part of Ken- 
tucky. Others became men of note in the business and profes- 
sional world. Hard study under preceptors "Uncle Billie" and 
"Scotchie" — hard work, with seasons of "good times in the 
woods," and rest and worship on the Lord's Day — these things 
were the making of the Somerset boys. 



18 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Deacon V. W. Allen, now (1913) eighty-eight years old, liv- 
ing at Elihu, Kentucky, tells with keen relish of Somerset boy- 
life in those early days. The following shall suffice: 

"One time we 'robbed' a bee-hive and ate honey till we could 
eat no more. Then Bennett Buckner made 'honey-bread/ and 
we ate again and pronounced it 'good/ 

"On another occasion several of us boys met at the 'Daddy 
Buckner' home. It was the season of wild cherries and we were 
soon out gathering and eating. Bennett and Robert Buckner 
were with us, and we had a first-rate good time. But some were 
greedy and ate too many cherries to their sorrow. Sometimes 
there was a fight. Then the balance of us stood and looked on, 
and would not allow a boy to get hurt." 

Initiated Into Delights of Horsemanship. — When Robert 
Buckner was a small boy, he was extremely cautious — so much 
so that it gave his mother concern. He could scarcely be coaxed 
to ride a gentle horse when other boys of his age were expert 
riders. One day he was persuaded to mount a gentle animal. 
Then his mother and his brother, Bennett, urged the horse into 
a swift trot. Robert held on, liked it, and was soon as daring 
as other boys. 

His First Gun. — The Somerset boy in the forties who could 
not ride on horseback and could not shoot a gun was "no boy 
at all." Robert was now getting to be a skilled equestrian and, 
of course, he must have a gun. His father yielded, the gun was 
bought, and Robert was a proud boy. It was different from 
other guns in the neighborhood in that the wood-stock reached 
only a third of the length of the barrel, whereas other guns 
had the wood-stock full length. It loaded from the "muzzle," 
requiring a "ramrod" to "ram the bullet down," as did other 
guns. 

To Shoot Rats. — The proud boy hastened to his father's barn 
to shoot rats. But while climbing, by accident, the gun "fired," 
sending a bullet through a toe on his left foot. His mother 



Boyhood and Youth 



19 



dressed the wounded toe, removing fractured bones, and the 
young sportsman was a shut-in for six weeks. 

Dr. B. F. Riley of Birmingham, Alabama, author of a "His- 
tory of Texas Baptists," remarked of Dr. Buckner: "Beneath 
all his cheerful exterior there has been a will of iron." This was 
true even when he was a boy. In his first atempt to shoot rats, 
the toe was wounded, but the "will of iron" was not. So as soon 
as he could cripple back to the barn on crutches, he was there, 
determined to shoot rats. Nor did he leave till he had killed 
one. The "will of iron" grew as the boy grew, and in the merid- 
ian of his life it built Buckner Orphans Home. 



CHAPTER V 



EARLY IN GOD S SERVICE 



God's program for uplifting humanity included the life of 
R. C. Buckner. God must use him. And, like Timothy, from a 
child he must know the Holy Scriptures. And, like Samuel, he 
must enter upon God's service in boyhood. It was a day when 
church people, as a rule, did not much encourage child conver- 
sions. Robert had not had Sunday School training, but he had 
had training in a Christian home. God meant to use him in more 
than seven decades of unselfish Christian service. In after ages 
it can be fitly said of him, as of Sir Isaac Newton, "Let mortals 
congratulate themselves that so great an ornament of human 
nature ever existed." 

Regenerated. — To open the boy's eyes to his undone condi- 
tion, the Holy Spirit made effective that grand, old, soul-searching 
hymn : 

"Amazing grace ! how sweet the sound." 

This hymn was a favorite in the Buckner home, as it was 
among Christian people the world over. Robert learned to sing 
it when yet a child. He loved it. One day while singing it, 
he stopped short and began thinking. Then he repeated the 
second line: 

"That saved a wretch like me." 

"No, no," he said to himself, "I am not saved." The third 
line: 

"Was lost but now am found." 

"No, I am lost and not found." 

"Was blind but now I see." 

"No, I am still blind." 

20 



Early in God's Service 21 

His heart was touched to the depths, and though only nine 
years old, he clearly saw he could not sing that hymn and apply 
its meaningful words to his own soul. He was not saved. Imme- 
diately he began weeping bitter tears, and his sister, Miriam, 
inquired the cause. 

"Oh, I am so sorry I am bad," was his reply. 

Many days passed while a sense of his lost condition lay like 
a dark cloud on his soul. At length after two years a good meet- 
ing of days was carried on at Somerset by his father, assisted 
by his brother, Henry Frieland. Robert was forward several 
times for prayer. But there came a service when he did not go 
forward. Henry went to him and asked if he felt better. 

"No better," was the reply. 

Then his heart cried out to God in deep repentance. Soul 
sorrow for sin, this was, but it was brief. Suddenly the burden 
was gone, and light and joy and sweet peace with God rilled his 
soul. It was an experience not to be forgotten in this world 
nor in that to come. 

Soon afterwards, he was baptized by his father in Sinking 
Creek, when he was one day over eleven years and nine months 
old. He became a member of Somerset church, where his father 
was pastor. 

Bible Study. — Robert had read the Scriptures much during 
the dark days when under conviction of sin. He was seeking 
light. And now, after his baptism, the Bible became his daily 
counselor, and continued to be his counselor all through his 
lengthened days. Into his life he incorporated the great thoughts 
of God. The words of the English Bible became to him thought 
and language and utterance. 

Of the English Bible, Pattison has well said: "Never was 
nobler thought welded to richer tongue." And what else made 
Bunyan and Milton immortal, and Watts and Dickens and Burke 
and Daniel Webster, and a hundred others ? 

Favorable Environment. — The Buckner children were all 



22 Life of R. C. Buckner 

early enlisted in the army of God. The power was in the home. 
The good influence of Daniel and Mary Buckner, over their own 
children and over their neighbors, was irresistible. 

Deacon V. W. Allen, who grew up under the spell of Daniel 
Buckner's power, says : "Elder Buckner was a nice man, a man 
that everybody liked and everybody had confidence in." 

Said R. C. Buckner: "My father always kept open doors 
for the afflicted and unfortunate by day and by night." Thus 
was Buckner's gospel lived, and his gospel lived was blessed in 
the saving of souls, the same as his gospel preached. We 
instance the following story given the world by Dr. A. J. Holt. 
It was published in the "Western Recorder," July 18, 1912. It 
is here abridged: 

Intoxicated Judge Saved. — Elder Daniel Buckner was pastor 
in Somerset in 1852. District Judge Joseph Porter rode up to 
the Buckner home one evening intoxicated. His own home was 
in Somerset, but he would not go home. He hailed : 

"Parson Buckner, Parson Buckner, I want to sleep in your 
barn!" 

"Come right in, Judge; come right in, and make yourself 
at home." 

"No. I want to sleep in your barn. Your wife is a lady and 
my wife is a lady, and I shall not sleep in any lady's bed. I 
deserve to sleep with the cattle." 

Elder Buckner was quickly out and had the Judge off his 
horse, and the animal was stalled and fed. 

"Now come with me, Judge, and I will smuggle you into the 
side room and Mrs. Buckner will not know it." The Judge was 
put to bed and a cup of coffee brought him. It was the invariable 
rule of Daniel Buckner to pray in his family at night before 
retiring, and he did not know how to pray in an ordinary tone 
of voice. Of course, Judge Porter heard him. A. J. Holt was 
lying on a "trundle-bed" in the same side room, trembling with 
fear. He was but a child, and was mortally afraid of a drunk 



Early in God's Service 23 

man. The light was still burning and the boy kept his eye on 
the judge. A hymn-book was lying on a small table beside 
Judge Porter's bed, and he, taking up the hymn-book, began 
reading Joseph Stennett's heart-moving hymn: 

"As on the cross the Savior hung 
And wept and bled and died, 
He poured salvation on a wretch 
That languished at His side." 

"Yes," said he, "I am as mean as that wretch, too." He 
read and commented all the way through the hymn. Then he 
got out of bed and fell on his knees in prayer. At the next meet- 
ing-day of Somerset Church, Judge Porter asked for member- 
ship, and Daniel Buckner baptized him. And to the end of his 
days Judge Porter was faithful to his church and to his God. 

Stennett's hymn, "As on the cross the Savior hung," was his 
sweet favorite. One day he sang it in the presence of a young 
girl with such power and pathos that she was saved, and was 
soon afterwards baptized by Elder Buckner. The room in which 
this occurred was the same in which, years before, R. C. Buckner 
was brought under conviction while singing "Amazing Grace." 

A preacher much loved in Kentucky, Rev. W. L. Porter, was 
a son of Judge Porter, and three preachers of power, J. J. Porter, 
J. C. Porter, and T. J. Porter, were his grandsons. They are 
remembered over the whole South, from Kentucky to Florida. 
Each of those distinguished grandsons was regaled with "D. D." 

Comforting the Dying. — Deacon V. W. Allen, elsewhere 
quoted, loved to tell how Daniel Buckner, away back in 1844, 
visited and prayed with his (Allen's) dying father. "He sang 
for my father his good songs, and prayed with him, and then, 
when he was gone, preached his funeral." 

As has been remarked, the environment within which the 
Buckner children were reared was favorable, and for this they 
never ceased to praise God. 



24 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Daniel Buckner and Somerset. — Daniel Buckner was shep- 
herd of the spiritual flock at Somerset for fifteen happy years. 
They were among the years of his strength. During this time 
he buried with Christ in holy baptism 250 new-born souls, and 
left the church with 325 members, trained missionaries and 
united. 

When he went away, he was not gone. He projected his 
spirit down into the coming generations of that church. Mrs. 
M. P. Elliott, who came into the church during this pastorate, 
wrote more than fifty years afterwards: "I am not ashamed of 
Somerset Church, nor of its fruits. The Buckners and Sallees 
and others known on two continents are products of this church." 

Leaving Somerset, Daniel Buckner accepted Perryville 
Church, and others in surrounding communities, remaining six 
years. Of his life in Kentucky he wrote many years afterward: 
"I shall never enjoy any better society till I get to the better 
land. I labored in Kentucky twenty-four years." 

Last Days in Texas. — After the removal of R. C. Buckner 
to Texas (of which I shall tell you later), Daniel Buckner could 
no longer content himself among the good people where he spent 
the strength of his manhood — the good people of old Kentucky. 
He shall tell it himself: 

"The cause of my removal to Texas was as follows: My 
youngest son, R. C. Buckner, had come to the State two years 
previously, and as he had always been the pet of the family, we 
felt that we could not do without him. On August 20, 1861, 
we set out on a 900-mile journey, and I drove my own team. I 
was in my sixtieth year. Soon after we got to the State, and 
within thirty-six miles of our destination, my wife was taken 
sick and we could not travel. I sent for a doctor, but all was in 
vain. On the ninth day of her illness, and my birthday, Septem- 
ber 30, 1 86 1, she died, among strangers and in a broken up con- 
dition, and all the privations of the war upon us. Thus she, who 
had been my comforter and in every way my helpmate for forty- 



Early in God's Service 25 

three years, was taken away from me. Yet amid all these 
afflictions, we always found good, kind, sympathizing friends." 

When it was seen that Mrs. Buckner's sickness might prove 
fatal, a messenger was dispatched to Paris for her son, Robert. 
He was holding a meeting at the time. It was not reported to 
him that the condition of his mother was serious, so he remained 
in Paris and preached at night and then hurried to see his sick 
mother the next day. The camp of his father, where she lay 
sick, was at Clarksville. But when the son got there, his mother 
was gone. Her last words, "Hasn't Bobbie come yet?" were 
ever afterward enshrined in his heart. Her body was laid to 
rest in the Clarksville cemetery, but her soul was with Jesus. 

Elder Daniel Buckner lingered on this side of Jordan twenty- 
two years longer, preaching as God gave him strength till he was 
four score and four years old, when he passed over from his son's 
home in Dallas, October, 1883. His ashes sleep in the Dallas 
cemetery. 

He had baptized 2,500 souls, of whom twenty-five had become 
ministers of the Gospel. 



CHAPTER VI 



EDUCATION 



Already we have had some flashlight notes on Dr. Buckner's 
early start on the road to learning. We shall follow him further. 
The "Old Brick Seminary" at Somerset started him off well. 

At scarce seventeen he began exercising as a minister. He 
needed to go up higher, and his father knew it, but it takes a 
little money to go to college, even when the most rigid economy 
is observed. The Buckners were resourceful, though not re- 
nowned for kinship to Croesus. Could the young preacher get 
help ? It was not asked. Yes, he got help. Deacon B. Wilmott, 
who finished his good life in Dallas, Texas, paid one dollar to 
assist the young man through school. This was all. The dea- 
con always claimed that he had an interest in all of Dr. Buckner's 
life work. 

Georgetown College. — It was a sacrifice, but it was made, and 
young Robert went to Georgetown. Deacon V. M. Allen relates : 
"In the fall of 1850, Robert Buckner, a young licensed preacher, 
came to the wood where I was assisting his father to make rails. 
His father talked to him with great earnestness about going to 
college. His father was so nice to him and talked to him so 
pleasantly that he consented." 

There were multitudes of people in that day who had never 
seen a "college man," or even heard of a college. 

The fond father accompanied his son to Georgetown, a hun- 
dred miles distant. He was introduced to Dr. Howard Malcolm, 
Georgetown's president, and duly entered. Dr. Malcolm was 
near the end of his incumbency and was succeeded by President 
J. L. Reynold, who, after two years, was followed by Dr. R. D. 
Campbell. Young Buckner remained till after President Camp- 

26 



Education 27 

bell was installed, and had, therefore, the help and inspiration of 
three of the best presidents that ever graced old Georgetown. 

Preceptor Blewett. — Robert Buckner's preceptor, Dr. B. L. 
Blewett, gave him careful attention, especially in Latin and 
Greek. He saw promise in his pupil and kept eyes on him for 
more than sixty years. At the advanced age of ninety-six, Dr. 
Blewett, in a letter to Dr. Buckner's biographer, used these 
words: "As a pupil under my care, I soon perceived young 
Buckner's promising capabilities. I love and esteem him for 
what he is and for what he has done. The impression of a suc- 
cessful future which he gave me when a boy has abided with me 
and has been fully realized. I desire a copy of the first issue of 
his biography." 

Preceptor Blewett had a keen eye for boys, both in directing 
their progress and peering into their mischiefs. As to detecting 
their mischiefs, the following chicken story will illustrate. 

Chicken Story. — Certain college boys "made up" to roast 
some of Preceptor Blewett's plump chickens. (Buckner was not 
one of this bunch.) But the doctor "caught on." The appointed 
night came, and the youngsters were in line at the chicken roost. 
The boy nearest the roost lifted a fine bird. It was passed to 
the next boy, and from boy to boy along the line, with the word, 
"This is Bet!" Another was passed, with the word, "This is 
Ned !" But it transpired that Preceptor Blewett was also in line. 
Suffice to say the chicken feast was not a success. 

Quite soon thereafter "Doctor Blewett" made a dinner and 
invited several of the students. They were prompt to accept, 
esteeming it no small honor. A great dish of smoking "chicken 
pie" on the center of the table whetted every appetite. Blessing 
was spoken, then the good doctor began passing the plates, plen- 
tifully filled. "Have some of Bet ! Have some of Ned !" Sad 
to relate, the young gentlemen were of a sudden entirely without 
appetites. Boys under Blewett soon learned that digging at Latin 
and Greek roots was better than planning mischievous escapades. 



28 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Sunday School Teacher. — While at Georgetown, Student 
Buckner's walk was orderly. This was quickly observed, and a 
class was given him in the Sunday School. He had never before, 
but one time, seen inside of a Sunday School. Just once he had 
been present at the meeting of a little Methodist school. The 
next time was at Georgetown, where he was soon a teacher. 

Well on the Road. — Some men are "college-made," others 
"self-made." But some men who do things are both college- 
made and self-made. Dr. Buckner was of the latter class. 

Returning from Georgetown well started on the road to learn- 
ing, he never ceased to go forward. It is said of the immortal 
John Gill of England that after traversing continents of patristic, 
rabbinical and oriental lore, and after bringing out in nine large 
folio volumes his "Body of Divinity," he continued to go right 
on into still wider study and research, even down to advanced old 
age. "This," said he, "I do for the further instruction of the 
people under my care." Gill was Buckner's ideal. 

And Buckner continued. His steps were cautious. He read 
none but the best books and periodicals. He kept pace with the 
advance of religious progress and of world history. He under- 
stood Beecker's words : "The periodicals are an ever unfolding 
cyclopedia." 

Theological Attainments. — Buckner's theological attainments 
grew to be of the highest order. "Scott's Commentaries," 
"Barnes' Notes," "Wesley's Notes," Calvin, Watson, Dwight, 
Olshauser, Fuller, and Gill were studied with tireless care. But 
his main daily study was God's book. 

Some lines in his father's hand on the flyleaf of his Bible were 
his guide: 

"Men's books with heaps of chaff are stored, 
God's book doth golden grain afford ; 
Then leave the chaff and spend thy pains 
In gathering up the golden grains." 



Education 29 

Miss Lula Mae Whitehead, long years Dr. Buckner's secretary, 
says it was his delight to teach those lines to many orphan 
children. 

"He did not spend much time with fiction," says Miss White- 
head. "He feared the embellished fiction might smile itself into 
where none but stern facts should be entertained." His complete 
set of Scott's Novels were given to his friend, Senator S. B. 
Maxey. 

Says Miss Whitehead: "The old church hymns his mother 
sang were music to his soul. His heart continued to sing them." 

Legal Learning. — Dr. Buckner made himself familiar with 
Blackstone and other writers on law. His zeal and aptitude in 
this field was taken note of by lawyers of renown, and tempting 
offers were made him to enter their offices and give his life to 
the legal profession. The charter of Buckner Orphan Home and 
that of the Texas Baptist Memorial Sanitarium, besides charters 
of other institutions, are his productions. They are documents 
worthy of a well-trained lawyer. 

Eleemosynary Information. — In his later days, Dr. Buckner's 
acquaintance with eleemosynary literature came to be quite 
extensive. He read hundreds of productions bearing on this 
subject, and visited many institutions. At eighty years of age 
he towered above almost every other man in the world in knowl- 
edge respecting the good work of caring for orphan children and 
dependent aged people. 

What Others Think. — President B. H. Carroll, of Southwest- 
ern Baptist Theological Seminary: "I hold in the highest pos- 
sible esteem Dr. R. C. Buckner. I hold him as a personal friend, 
a man without reproach in character, wise in council, able in the 
interpretation of the Scriptures, sound in theology, safe in pas- 
toral administration, and one of the few great presiding officers 
of the world, ranking with Brice of the Northern Baptist Con- 
vention, and with Boyce and Mell of the Southern Baptist Con- 
vention. Few men living ever had such clear conception of 



30 Life of R. C. Buckner 

parliamentary law, or were prompter in making decisions upon 
points of order. When the final history of the Baptist denomi- 
nation in Texas is written, no name will be more illustrious than 
that of R. C. Buckner. Our Texas Baptist General Convention 
was delighted to honor him as its president for many years. His 
greatest monument, outlasting any memorial of granite or marble 
ever erected over the dead, will be the great institution which he 
founded and which has prospered to the present time." From 
letter to the author, October 17, 1912. 

Fred W. Freeman, Christian lawyer, Denver, Colorado : "If 
to so accommodate himself in speaking and writing as to be thor- 
oughly understood — if this is scholarship, then I am ready to 
sign a diploma for Dr. Buckner as a professor in the University 
of the World." 

Rev. W. P. Harvey, Harrodsburg, Kentucky, many years 
auditor of the Southern Baptist Convention: "He has ranked 
through life as a safe, intelligent leader." 

Rev. W. D. Powell, D. D., State Mission Secretary, Louis- 
ville, Kentucky : "Dr. Buckner ranks high as a finished scholar, 
and for more than thirty years I have devoured everything that 
has come from his hands." 

President E. Y. Mullins, of the Southern Baptist Theological 
Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky: "I used to visit the office of 
the "Texas Baptist" in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Buckner was the 
editor. He was kindness itself to me. I very soon began to 
consider the question of entering the ministry. In Dr. Buckner's 
office I found excellent reading for a young Christian. He 
impressed me profoundly. His sermons moved me. It was while 
listening to him preach that my purpose to enter the ministry, in 
part, was formed. I have watched his course with the greatest 
interest and have noted the creative spirit that established and 
built up the Orphans Home. I know of no man whose sim- 
plicity and force of character have impressed me more than those 



Education 31 

of Dr. Buckner." (Excerpts above are from letters to J. L. 
Walker.) 

The preceding excerpts are from letters to the author, writ- 
ten in 19 12. They could be multiplied. 

Dr. J. B. Link, fellow-student with Dr. Buckner at George- 
town, and many years editor of the "Texas Baptist Herald," 
wrote: "The foundations of his (Buckner's) education were 
laid at Somerset, Kentucky, where the writer first knew him, and 
has been studiously built upon for many years. In the earlier 
years of his ministry he was an untiring student and made it the 
rule not to preach from even the plainest New Testament text 
without examining it in the original Greek." — Biographical and 
Historical Magazine. 

The degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred on R. C. 
Buckner by Keachi College (Louisiana) when that school was at 
the height of its prosperity. 

The degree of Doctor of Laws was conferred on him by Bay- 
lor University at Waco. On the same occasion Baylor conferred 
a like honor on President W. R. Harper, of Chicago University ; 
President E. Y. Mullins, of the Southern Baptist Theological 
Seminary, and others: 

Dr. Buckner was sitting among the others on the platform 
at the time and facetiously remarked : "I caught that by absorp- 
tion." But President S. P. Brooks, of Baylor, arose and said: 
"I would rather have to my credit the good work wrought by 
Dr. Buckner than to be Czar of all the Russias." 



CHAPTER VII 



EARLY LABORS IN KENTUCKY 



The sunrise of R. C. Buckner's ministerial life was cloudless. 
His call into the ministry by the Spirit was heard by both him- 
self and the Baptist Church at Somerset. He was but a youth 
of seventeen summers. But the church liberated him and encour- 
aged him, and he was in favor with God and all the people. 
With joy he preached the good news of the Kingdom and com- 
forted the sick and distressed. For his work's sake, he was 
remembered by the good people of Somerset for many decades. 

This incident will illustrate : After an absence of forty years, 
he again visited the home of his boyhood and early ministry. To 
a lady, at whose home he called, he announced: "I am R. C. 
Buckner, from Texas." She looked him in the face a moment 
and replied: "Dr. Buckner, you are welcome to my home. 
You are the man my mother told me to never forget, because 
of kindness to my brother in his sickness." 

But to come to his best, the young preacher must have addi- 
tional training. And as we know he was soon away at George- 
town, sitting at the feet of Preceptor Blewett and of other 
preceptors. And never a potter knew better how to mold the 
yielding clay than did Dr. Blewett the plastic mind of his pupil. 

Meeting at Fishing Creek. — After returning from George- 
town in the summer of 1852, young Buckner held a meeting of 
power and results with the Fishing Creek Church near Somerset. 
Elder James Cooper ("Good Uncle Jimmie"), the pastor, was 
aged and "palsied." 

There were fourteen unsaved people present on the evening 
of the beginning, and twelve of them were saved that evening 
and the other two were saved with others as the meeting pro- 
gressed. At the close, the baptizing was done in Fishing Creek 

32 



Early Labors in Kentucky 33 

at midnight. Among the baptized was a young man of honor- 
able connection named A. J. Dye, whose family held with the 
followers of Alexander Campbell. This young brother developed 
into a Baptist preacher of strength and influence. He has long 
since gone to his eternal home. 

Not far from this time our young minister passed a pleasant 
evening in a hotel parlor in Somerset with two young lady 
friends, sisters, who were strangers to grace. Dancing was 
going on in another room. The sisters asked him to accompany 
them to that room. 

Said he : "I will go with you if you will do the first thing I 
shall ask after reaching there." 

"We will do what you say," they promised. 

He went, remained a few minutes, and said : "Now my 
request is that you return with me to the parlor." 

They returned. Then he talked to them about the evils of 
dancing and of their need of a Savior. They promised never to 
dance again. Not long afterwards Elder Daniel Buckner baptized 
them. 

The young preacher's friends had hoped that he would prove 
as useful in advancing the Kingdom as his illustrious brother, 
Henry Frieland Buckner, who was now in the beginning of 
his good work as missionary to the Creek Indians. Albany 
Church in Clinton County, some fifteen miles away, had an eye 
on him as a possible pastor. 

Separation to the Work. — Two months after the Fishing 
Creek meeting, R. C. Buckner was ordained to the full work 
of the Gospel ministry. This solemn service was authorized by 
the Somerset Baptist Church and was observed in the Somerset 
meeting-house. 

Following is a copy of his credentials : 

"To Whom It May Concern. — This is to certify that the 
undersigned, after satisfactory examination of our beloved young 
brother, Robert C. Buckner, as to his Christian experience, call 



34 Life of R. C. Buckner 

to the ministry and views of doctrine, when convened for the 
purpose with the United Baptist Church of Jesus Christ at Som- 
erset, Kentucky, did proceed in accordance with the wish of said 
church to set apart by solemn prayer and imposition of hands 
the said Robert Buckner to the ministry of the Gospel, investing 
him with all the duties and privileges belonging to that most 
sacred office; and we hereby recommend him to the Christian 
regard and confidence of all the churches, and to the favorable 
notice of all magistrates and men in authority, praying that he 
may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness. 

"In testimony whereof witness our own signatures this 13th 
day of November, 1852. 

"B. T. Taylor, Pastor Columbia Church, Kentucky. 
"Daniel Buckner, Pastor Somerset Church, Kentucky." 

Rev. B. T. Taylor, whose name is subscribed to the foregoing 
instrument, had been a fellow-student with R. C. Buckner at 
Georgetown. 

Meeting at Somerset. — Immediately after his ordination, 
R. C. Buckner and his friend, Rev. B. T. Taylor, held a meeting 
of days in Somerset which resulted in fifteen additions to the 
church by baptism. 

Though his father was pastor, it was decided that the son 
should administer the ordinance of baptism. The first to receive 
the ordinance at his hands was Miss Moriah Porter, daughter 
of Judge Joseph Porter. Sixty years afterwards this lady, now 
Mrs. Moriah Porter Elliott, in a letter to Dr. Buckner, thus refers 
to that happy occasion : "You baptized me, the first person you 
ever baptized. All the others saved in that meeting have passed 
on into the next world. Your mother saw that I was under 
conviction and led me to the altar, where I made the good 
confession." 

It was at Somerset that R. C. Buckner was saved, baptized, 
licensed to preach, preached his first sermon, was ordained and 
did his first baptizing. 



Early Labors in Kentucky 35 

Church Planted at Stanford. — From the Somerset meeting he 
went to Stanford, in Lincoln County, where he and Elder Jesse 
C. Portman conducted a good meeting. The Baptists had no 
house, and were glad to hold in a house belonging to the 
Disciples, which had been tendered. 

While the meeting was in progress the Disciples came together 
and held a communion service. They invited the Baptists and 
others to partake with them. Portman partook, Buckner de- 
clined. As soon as the service was adjourned, Buckner asked: 

"Brother Portman, why did you commune with the Disciples?" 

Portman: "They were so good in letting us have the house 
that I couldn't help it." 

Buckner : "I declined in order to show them that I stood for 
principle." 

Elder Portman was at that time forty-six years old ; Buckner 
not yet twenty. 

The fruit of this meeting was the organization of the Stan- 
ford Baptist Church by a presbytery composed of Elders Jesse 
C. Portman, R. D. Potts (later missionary to the Choctaw 
Indians), and R. C. Buckner. Elder Porter was afterwards its 
pastor. Later he came to north Texas, where he did substantial, 
constructive work as evangelist and pastor. During the Civil 
War he was pastor of Rowlet's Creek Church and moderator of 
Elm Fork Association. 

Albany Pastorate. — Albany was the county seat of Clinton 
County, about fifty miles from Somerset. No more refined or 
cultured people could be found in Kentucky than had their resi- 
dence in this town. Among them were Deacon Sam Long, 
member of the Kentucky Legislature ; General Rice Maxey, dea- 
con and lawyer of ability and large practice; also Judge George 
N. Denton, deacon. These gentlemen with their families were 
all members of the Albany Baptist Church. 

Accepting their warm invitation, Dr. Buckner, at the age of 
twenty, became pastor of this delightful people January 20, 1853. 



36 Life of R. C. Buckner 

A congenial friendship sprang up between young Sam Bell 
Maxey, worthy son of General Maxey, and Pastor Buckner that 
continued through life. Young Maxey was a graduate from the 
United States Military Institute at West Point, and a capable 
lawyer with a growing practice. His pastor had the happiness 
to say the word that made Maxey and Marilda Denton husband 
and wife. This young man's star of destiny in after years led 
him on to a place of distinction as an officer in the war with 
Mexico in 1845 ( m which war Bennett Buckner, brother of R. C. 
Buckner, lost his life), as a Confederate general in the Civil War, 
to a seat in the United States Congress as a Senator from Texas, 
and to a position of leadership in the councils of the great 
Baptist denomination. 

Blind Widow at Albany. — In the Albany flock was a blind 
widow, familiarly known as "Blind Grandma Stoddard." She 
was devout, intelligent, a lady of convictions, a Baptist, and knew 
why. Dr. J. M. Pendleton, towering scholar and author, had 
been her pastor and she loved him devotedly, and now that R. C. 
Buckner was her pastor, she loved him none the less. One day 
"Blind Grandma" handed Pastor Buckner $5.00 in gold. 

"I cannot take it," he said. "I would rather give you five 
times that sum than take it." 

"But you must take it. You will break my heart if you do 
not take it." 

He took it and asked : "Where did you get so much money ?" 

"Earned it knitting. I knit from morning till night and am 
happy in my occupation." 

It was during this pastorate at Albany that R. C. Buckner made 
choice of Miss Vienna Long as his life partner in God's service. 
They were married June 7, 1854. With the glad coming of this 
sunny Christian companion into his life came new light and 
strength, such as a God-sent helpmate only can give. Miss Long 
was the accomplished daughter of Deacon Sam Long, elegantly 
brought up and noted for her personal charms. Hear Dr. A. J. 



Early Labors in Kentucky 37 

Holt: "Miss Vienna was the most beautiful woman I had ever 
seen. Her beauty seemed almost angelic." 

Miss Long was at Henry Female College when the Albany 
people gave the hand of welcome to their new pastor. Returning, 
she was gracefully presented to him by her father. The pleasing 
occasion is set to music in some beautiful lines found among the 
papers of Dr. Buckner. 

"The Place Where First I Met Her." 

"Gracing hillock stood a mansion, 

Home of this girl's honored father; 

There, the fact I softly whisper, 
(She was reared without a mother) ; 

There we met when day was going 

Into quiet twilight shades, 

Evening sunset backward throwing 

Lines of gold on mellow clouds. 

Entered I at that sweet hour, 

As from distant school she came 

And stepped beside her father's chair, 

When he pronounced to her my name, 

My name to her, and hers to me, 

As, rising from his easy chair, 

He said, 'Our pastor, Dear, you see, 

We all have made him welcome here/ 

I turned aside from grace and beauty, 

Said 'Goodnight,' and then retired; 

Left because it was my duty, 

Felt my soul with love inspired, 

Felt to sing of joy that fills 

The heart when holy, youthful love 

Responds to heart, responds and thrills 

With bliss, like bliss in Heaven above." 



38 Life of R. C. Buckner 

The bridal tour across the undulating country, part of the 
way on horseback, to Somerset was enjoyed. At Somerset the 
young tourists procured a buggy and continued northward 
through woodland parks, across sparkling streams, over fragrant 
hills and along golden vales, at length alighting at a place in 
Mercer County, where a gospel meeting was being conducted by 
two of Kentucky's most valued preachers. They were V. E. 
Kirkland, D. D., and A. W. LaRue, D. D. 

Sample Sermon. — Young Buckner was asked to preach in 
the Kirkland and LaRue meeting. No excuse would be heard. 
Preach he must, and did. He learned afterwards that there were 
present brethren from Owensboro who wished to hear him preach 
without letting him know it. The bridal tour here ended and 
the young couple returned to Albany. 

Dr. LaRue was the man who convinced George C. Lorimer 
that God needed his splendid talents in the pulpit. Lorimer was 
among the most famous stage actors in America, and soon came 
to be one of the first preachers on the continent. At one time 
R. C. Buckner and George C. Lorimer were neighboring pastors, 
Buckner at Salvisa and Lorimer at Harrodsburg. When Lori- 
mer resigned Buckner was urged to accept Harrodsburg for life. 

In a brief time young Buckner received a call from the church 
at Owensboro at a salary of $500. Then came an invitation to 
visit Louisville with a view to the pastorate of Portland Avenue 
Church. Portland Avenue was under the foster care of Walnut 
Street Church. 

He was soon in Louisville. Here he beheld the crowds at 
the altar of Mammon, and his heart was stirred within him. He 
entered the elegant, fashionable Walnut Street Church, where the 
illustrious W. W. Everett, D. D., was pastor. 

The pipe organ pealed forth swelling music. It was the first 
pipe organ he had ever seen or heard. It seemed attuned to the 
harmonies of Heaven. And deep down in his soul he wished 
that the music of human activity in that city might praise God 



Early Labors in Kentucky 39 

in harmony with the grand pipe organ. He felt he could preach, 
and did preach. 

A tempting offer of $1,200 was tendered him if he would 
become the settled pastor of Portland Avenue Church. The offi- 
cers of Walnut Street Church stood ready to make good his 
salary. 

Open Doors. — Louisville offered $1,200, Owensboro $500. 
Then the church at Albany would consent to no change. 

What must he do? 

Deacon Long could see no good reason why his talented son- 
in-law should go to either Louisville or Owensboro, so he gave 
the young man $2,000 with which to buy an interest in a store. 
"He can own an interest in this business, live in Albany, preach 
for Albany Church, and do better financially than in either Louis- 
ville or Owensboro." So reasoned the deacon. The trade for 
the business was not made, but the young man was expected to 
keep the $2,000. He returned $1,000 to his father-in-law, saying 
he did not need it. 

Pastor at Owensboro. — Dr. Buckner settled the question of 
pastorate, as every conscientious pastor settles such questions, 
on his knees. 

Dr. S. L. Helm, one time corresponding secretary of the 
American Indian Mission Association (the same that sent out 
Henry Frieland Buckner), had been shepherd at Owensboro, and 
the call to young Buckner came as the call of God to care for the 
flock now suffering because of the going of Dr. Helm. It was 
his duty to accept. A happy pastorate it proved, too, continuing 
through 1855 and l8 5o\ 

As choice spirits as could be found anywhere were counted 
among this Owensboro household : as Mercer Moreman, J. Fink 
and Lockett Hall. A worthy citizenship held these gentlemen as 
primi inter Pares. The McKays also were ornaments both of 
society and of the household of faith. Dr. W. H. McKay and 
Mrs. McKay, many years prominent citizens of Tyler, Texas, 



40 Life of R. C. Buckner 

were children, not yet grown, in Owensboro at the time when Dr. 
Buckner was shepherd in that city. Writing fifty-eight years 
afterwards, Dr. McKay says: "Both R. C. Buckner and Mrs. 
Buckner were liked in my father's family, and I remember being 
very fond of them. My wife and I are sure that a life that has 
been as full as that of Dr. Buckner' s will furnish rich materials 
for an interesting book. We love and revere the dear man." 

Agent for Domestic Board. — The pleasant task of feeding 
and leading the Owensboro flock could only continue two years. 
The young shepherd must have other experiences. It was in the 
plan of God. 

Accordingly, the year of 1857 was given to the Domestic 
Board. He was the first agent of this Board in the State of 
Kentucky. Optimistic, cheerful, active, and everywhere wel- 
come, his labors in this new field were crowned with success. 

The Board profited by his collections, as for instance, Mrs. 
J. M. Frost, mother of Dr. J. M. Frost, of the Sunday School 
Board, contributed through him at one time $500. 

(Elder J. M. Frost, Sr., good man and able minister of the 
New Testament, died in Lexington, Kentucky, May 31, 1876. 
His last words were, "And now I am saved in fact in the 
Kingdom of God.") 

But the sowing done by Agent Buckner was worth more to 
his Board than his reaping. Mission seeds were lodged in the 
hearts of the Baptist people in all parts of the State, and from 
that day forward through the oncoming decades Kentucky's mis- 
sionary record has been luminous. 

Buckner not only advocated missions, asking others to put 
their money into the work of advancing the Kingdom, but he put 
his own money into it. At this very time, and out of his own 
purse, he was supporting Elder Levy Mitchell, a missionary of 
the Domestic Board and kept it up for two years. Mitchell was 
a Choctaw Indian laboring among his own people in Indian Ter- 
ritory. He was an eloquent preacher and a charming singer. 



Early Labors in Kentucky 41 

Though R. C. Buckner kept Mitchell in the field, he himself was 
a poor man and working for a very small salary. 

Pastorate at Salvisa. — A call from the church at Salvisa 
put Dr. Buckner back into the pastoral office, January, 1858. 
Salvisa was a pleasant field, the home of many refined and sunny 
people. A delectable company of saints, coveting earnestly the 
best gifts, made up the congregation of the Baptist Church. 

Salvisa was not far from the place where, in 1854, Doctors 
Kirkland and LaRue held a great meeting and where Dr. Buckner 
delivered a sermon that made a deep impression and abided in 
the minds of the people. 

It is in the bearing of fruit that our Heavenly Father is 
glorified, and the Salvisa pastorate was one of continual gather- 
ing of sheaves. A rich harvest came in December, 1858, when 
Pastor Buckner baptized a large company of willing converts in 
Salt River, a mile from the town. The weather was cold and 
water froze in the hair of the converts as they came up out of 
the baptismal wave, yet none suffered in health. 

In the spring of 1859, Dr. Buckner baptized an elderly Pres- 
byterian lady. This was displeasing to the Presbyterian minister, 
a Dr. Reeser. And right soon the displeased Dr. Reeser brought 
out a booklet entitled "Divine Testimony in Favor of Infant Bap- 
tism." Dr. Buckner replied in a booklet bearing the title, 
"Absence of Divine Testimony in Favor of Infant Baptism." 

Dr. Reeser's production laid great stress on circumcision per- 
formed on infants under the Abrahamic covenant as proof that 
baptism must be administered to infants under the Christian 
covenant. 

Dr. Buckner's reply made the argument that nothing in the 
Abrahamic covenant belongs to the Christian unless plainly so 
stated in the inspired record, and that the ceremony of circum- 
cision is nowhere said by the inspired writers to be a part of the 
Christian covenant, or a type of baptism required by the Christian 
covenant. This was unanswerable, and the booklet was well 



42 



Life of R. C. Buckner 



received with pastors and others. Especially was it commended 
by Rev. B. T. Taylor, whose name was signed to Dr. Buckner's 
ministerial credentials. 

In the summer of 1859, Pastor Buckner had an attack of 
typhoid-pneumonia, which came nigh taking him to his long 
home. Recovering, he gained strength very slowly. This led 
him to resign at Salvisa and move to Paris, Texas, whither some 
of his relations and some of his best friends had already gone. 

Eighteen months of joyful service had been given to Salvisa 
and more than seven years to Kentucky. His impress on that 
goodly State abides and will abide. 

It might be appended that after the Civil War five of Salvisa's 
ex-pastors published the good news over all of northeast Texas. 
They were Elders Josiah Leake, Daniel Buckner, P. S. G. Wat- 
son, H. H. Tilford, and R. C. Buckner. 



CHAPTER VIII 



TEXAS AND FIRST STEPS 



Texas. — Delightful clime, balmy air, smiling skies, fruitful 
fields, happy homes; famed for heroism above ancient Sparta, 
and for patriotism beyond imperial Rome; charmed land, sur- 
passing the fabled gardens of the undying gods — this is Texas. 

Move to Texas. — In the summer of 1859, Dr. Buckner spoke 
a tearful farewell to his loved church at Salvisa, Kentucky, and 
in the autumn following moved to Paris, Texas. He made the 
long overland journey by wagon, with his wife and two children, 
driving his own team and camping out at night. Some of his 
relatives and some other warm friends had preceded him and 
were now citizens of Paris. 

Bird's-eye View of Texas, 1859. — Dr. Buckner's quick eye 
took in all Texas. Elder W. R. Green was pastor at Paris, and 
the Paris Church was cooperating with the Eastern Texas Baptist 
Convention. There were 429,000 whites and 180,000 blacks in 
the State. A Baptist named Sam Houston was governor-elect, 
and was that year inaugurated. 

The Baptists numbered near 30,000, and had 80 houses of 
worship. The Methodists had more members and more houses, 
the Presbyterians fewer, while the Catholics exceeded both the 
Baptists and the Methodists in members, but had fewer houses. 

There were two Baptist general missionary bodies in the 
State, the State Convention in south Texas and the Eastern 
Texas Convention in east Texas. The self-sacrificing mission- 
aries of those bodies were doing heroic work, though on salaries 
of $100 to $600. 

43 



44 Life of R. C. Buckner 

There were twenty-six Baptist associations, each competing 
for a share in the labor and in the joy of saving Texas. Many 
of the watchmen were men of intellectual might and kingdom 
hearts. 

R. C. Burleson, pioneer and patriarch of Texas education, 
was president of the State Convention and of Baylor University. 
And this Baylor was the pride of Texas. Self -grown A. E. 
Clemmons, pastor at Marshall, was president of the Eastern 
Texas Convention. George W. Baines, of radiant memory, was 
shepherd at Anderson, and was editor of the "Texas Baptist," 
sending that Kingdom sheet into 2,200 homes. Judge J. M. 
Maxcy was preaching the gospel every Sunday in east Texas, 
while holding court during the week. At Mount Pleasant was 
Joshua F. Johnson, pastor and statesman. That eminent jurist 
and gospel hero, R. E. B. Baylor, was holding court and preach- 
ing the gospel over all south central Texas. 

The grand old "canebrake preacher," Z. N. Morrell, in feeble 
health and silver age, was living at Blue Ridge, in Falls County, 
and preaching to the limit of his strength. Then "fighting 
preacher," Ephraim McDonald, armed with double-barrel gun, 
was chasing back the Indians and sowing gospel seed over all 
the settled portions of Williamson County and in parts beyond. 

D. B. Morrill, east of the Trinity, was threading every trail 
and publishing the glad tidings from Red River to the Gulf. 
Also M. V. Smith, in the sunny morning of his ministry, was 
evangelist in the counties of Rusk and Smith, while Jonas John- 
son, brave as Paul and lovable as John, was saving the counties 
of Grimes and Walker. Wharton and all the region round about 
was under the healing touch of a shining young spirit named 
J. H. Stribling. F. Kiefer was in the sunrise of his work among 
the Germans in Washington County and in other parts. 

We cannot mention all. There were 300 of them, a Gideon's 
300, too intent in pursuit to lie down by the cooling brook. But 
mocking at ease, they were grappling with the dragon, strangling 



Texas and First Steps 45 

every reptile of heresy and publishing the evangel of peace and 
good will among all the people. 

Ladonia Academy. — Dr. Buckner's first work after settling 
at Paris was to raise money and build a schoolhouse at Ladonia, 
in Fannin County. This was the beginning of a most excellent 
academy at that point. A few years later, two of the best edu- 
cators in the South, W. B. Featherstone and W. J. Brown, pre- 
sided over this academy and trained a thousand young people to 
be lights along the highway of progress in all parts of the State. 

A Debate. — About the time of building the Ladonia house, 
Dr. Buckner had a debate with a Methodist preacher whose name 
was Dr. Love, and whose stock in trade consisted largely in 
assertion. Among other things he asserted that there was not 
a Greek lexicon in all the world that gave "immerse" as a mean- 
ing of the Greek word for baptize. Dr. Buckner's library had 
not yet arrived from Kentucky, though he was expecting it. But 
luckily in a day or two it came. "Now," said he, "I will show 
you that 'immerse' is given by respectable authors. I hold in 
my hand a copy of 'Greenfield's Greek New Testament,' with his 
lexicon in the back part of the book. He gives as meanings 
'immerse, submerge, sink.' Will my brother come and read?" 

His brother would not read. 

"Has my brother a friend who will come forward and read 
in the hearing of the congregation?" 

No friend would come. 

Dr. Love immediately left the house, followed by several of 
his friends. This adjourned the debate. 

Dr. Buckner mounted his horse and started home. A gentle- 
man friend of Dr. Love's mounted and drew his horse by Dr. 
Buckner's side. Buckner tried to show this friend the definition. 
"I will not read," he replied. 

Evangelistic Excursions. — While at Paris, before beginning 
his pastorate and afterwards, Dr. Buckner made frequent evan- 
gelistic tours into the surrounding country, reaping on many 



46 Life of R. C. Buckner 

fields. A meeting was held at Ladonia, where he baptized Lewis 
Holland, a gentleman of finished education, afterwards a 
preacher well known and of wide influence. 

Dr. Buckner made journeys on foot regularly to Sylvan, 
some seven miles west of Paris, and preached to the people. 
They were a high type of citizenship, maintained a classical 
school, and were grateful for this service. He also kept up regu- 
lar preaching appointments at another schoolhouse five miles east 
of Paris, going and returning on foot. Here, too, a good meeting 
was held. 

Meeting at Brakeen Schoolhouse. — Brakeen Schoolhouse was 
fourteen miles south from Paris, near the Sulphur. Under a 
bush arbor at this point was held a meeting such as would 
rejoice the angels. Dr. Buckner made the trip on horseback from 
his home each day, preached at eleven o'clock and at night, and 
then returned home after the night's service. The congregation 
grew daily till one day a multitude stood before the preacher. 
The text was, "I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for 
it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth." 

As the arguments, illustrations, and appeals succeeded one 
another, the multitude hanging on his words, the speaker became 
marvelously conscious of the Divine Presence. Speaking of it 
many years afterward to his biographer, he used these words: 
"I felt a consciousnes of the Divine Presence and power over 
the great audience and in my own soul. It was in the days when 
it was customary to invite penitents to the front seats for special 
prayer. At the conclusion of the discourse I felt confident of 
the immediate and all-conquering power of the gospel over the 
people, and that a number of the front seats would be needed. 
After requesting the seats to be vacated, I gave the invitation 
about as follows: 

"Many of you unconverted people now feel that you should 
at once surrender to Jesus, the only Savior. It is said in the 
text that the gospel is the power of God unto salvation. You 



Texas and First Steps 47 

cannot resist it. You cannot do otherwise than surrender to 
this power. Now promptly come to these front seats and let 
us pray together, and you will experience in your own souls that 
the gospel is the power of God unto your own personal salvation." 

A multitude came forward. Among them was an old veteran 
sinner, who was saved. The meeting continued two weeks, and 
a large number was saved. There was a hard case in the neigh- 
borhood known as "Uncle Sheb Williams." Would Uncle Sheb 
come to the meeting? He did come and was soon under convic- 
tion. He left, no one could tell where. But soon he came back, 
shouting a glorious Christian experience. 

"Down in the Bois d'Arc bottom," said Uncle Sheb, "beside 
an old stump, I wrestled with sin and surrendered to the Lord." 

There was no man in the community more prominent, influ- 
ential, or worthy than Uncle Sheb Williams. Many of the best 
citizens of Paris are, and have been all along, of this Williams 
family. 



CHAPTER IX 

PARIS BAPTIST CHURCH AND PASTORATE 

Paris Baptist Church. — The Paris Baptist Church was con- 
stituted April 23, 1854, by Elder Willis M. Pickett, who resided 
at Clarksville, Texas. Before coming to Texas, Elder Pickett 
planted the church at Owensboro, Ky., where Dr. Buckner after- 
wards served as pastor. 

Elder Pickett led the infant church at Paris a year, helping 
it grow strong. Under his care it received twenty-one members 
and received anchorage in the Red River Baptist Association. 
When he afterwards died at Clarksville, Dr. Buckner conducted 
the funeral service and helped fill up the grave. 

The constituent members of Paris church were J. Homer 
Cross, John Chinoworth, Goodman Tucker (afterwards deacon), 
Elizabeth Bell and Cynthia A. Little. 

J. Homer Cross was a son of Kentucky, of the type in that 
goodly State noted for vigor and integrity. When he was pre- 
paring to leave his native heath for Texas, R. C. Buckner, suc- 
cessor to the apostle of the tent-making craft, cut out and helped 
make the duck tent for the use of Cross and family en route. 
Faithful Goodman Tucker, some sixteen years afterward, was 
a constituent member and deacon of Sulphur Springs Church, 
planted under Dr. Buckner's supervision while superintendent 
of missions. 

After Elder Pickett, Elder R. L. Baker guided the church at 
Paris two years, carrying its cooperating strength in 1858 to the 
Eastern Texas Convention. Following Elder Baker was Elder 
W. R. Green, who was pastor at the time of the arrival of Dr. 
Buckner. 

48 



Paris Baptist Church and Pastorate 49 

Pastor at Paris. — R. C. Buckner was called to the care of 
the church at Paris in January, 1861. In March, he accepted, 
which with him meant the taking of all the flock and carrying 
them in his bosom. As every time the Jewish high priest went 
into the most holy place, he bore upon his heart before God the 
names of all the tribes of Israel, inscribed on his breastplate; in 
like manner Pastor Buckner, day by day, bore up before God on 
his heart, in holy prayer, the name of every member of his 
beloved church. 

Full Time. — The church called for one- fourth time, but the 
voice of God, speaking in the pastor's inner ear, said, "Full 
Time." And the church made the salary $800. Dr. Buckner 
was the first pastor in North Texas to give full time to one 
church. 

But the brethren at Paris were awake to the needs of evange- 
listic work in the adjacent country, and cheerfully made the 
sacrifice of lending their pastor to hold meetings and preach 
statedly at different points. He often walked out to those ap- 
pointments and then walked back home. It is amusing to recall 
that, when a little later Dr. Buckner's name was brought forward 
(though without his knowledge) as a suitable preacher to employ 
as city missionary in San Antonio, a prominent member of the 
board gravely objected on the ground that "a preacher who 
would make pedestrian journeys out to country points to preach 
would never do for a city missionary!" 

New Meeting House. — Immediately after accepting the 
church, Pastor Buckner turned his attention to the erection of a 
new church building. The church was now six years old. It 
was holding its services in what was called the "Seminary." 
Elder W. R. Green, who preceded Dr. Buckner, had earnestly 
advocated the building of a meeting-house, and had led the 
church to appoint a building committee. But nothing more was 
done, and the church continued to meet in the Seminary. Prob- 
ably because of delay in putting up this building, the little Baptist 



50 Life of R. C. Buckner 

company was held up in derision by some of the town people, 
as the "calico-bonnet crowd." 

When Pastor Buckner declared the house must go up with- 
out delay, a prominent brother, E. Sanders, expressed grave 
doubts, because the preacher "looked so much like a boy." This 
E. Sanders was still living at Anson, Texas, in 1913. For more 
than three-score years and ten, the feet of good E. Sanders 
walked the path marked out in the New Testament. And 
through a long half century he kept in memory with undying 
love his early Paris pastor. Writing in the late sunset of life, 
he could say with deep tenderness of heart: 

"My dear Buckner: It is now above fifty years that I have 
remembered you as the man who spoke comforting words at 
the graves of my three children." 

But many good brethren at Paris saw graver things in the 
way of building a meeting house, than the fact of a "boy 
preacher." And they were bold to assure their pastor that this 
year, 186 1, was a most inopportune and ill-chosen season for 
building, as now America's greatest war-cloud was already 
spread over the whole of the heavens, and all the strong men 
were hurrying away to the field of blood. But Pastor Buckner 
said : "The house must go up." It went up. 

The pastor put his own money into the building and worked 
at it with his own hands. Where did Buckner get money? He 
bought quantities of wheat, had it ground and sold the products, 
realizing a handsome profit. This money he put into the 
building, and this money made the building possible. 

With a hired man he went to Pine Creek bottom, and "rived" 
the lathes for interior plaster work. And he and Deacon William 
Jones went to the woods and hewed out of heavy oaks the 
columns that supported the building. He burned the lime him- 
self for the plaster work, and hauled it with his own team. 
With his own hands he built one of the dressing rooms, while 
the carpenter, Mr. Smith Owenby, built the other. Nor did he 



Paris Baptist Church and Pastorate 51 

cease his efforts till the edifice was finished and furnished with 
baptistry and furniture. Among the last things he did was to 
go thirty miles north into Indian Territory, to an old Presby- 
terian mission, where he bought two large stoves, hauled them to 
Paris in his own wagon, and placed them in the meeting house. 
The building was a credit to Paris and to all North Texas. It 
stood forty feet by seventy with a spire twenty-eight feet above 
the building. 

After the new building was completed, Dr. Buckner rented 
the Seminary building, in which the church originally worshiped, 
and opened a high-school with Colonel W. L. Williams and an 
accomplished lady as teachers. Colonel Williams afterwards 
married the daughter of a distinguished Missouri Baptist 
preacher named Beckley. This gifted sister in coming years 
touched for good the lives of multiplied thousands of Texas 
Baptist women. 

Colonel Williams became a constituent member and senior 
deacon of the First Church of Dallas, holding fast his Christian 
integrity to the day of his death. 

Calico Bonnet Church. — As already stated, the Baptist Church 
at Paris was called by some of the town people, "The Calico- 
Bonnet Church." But all the same, the church counted among 
its membership as noble and cultured people as any in the State. 

We mention General Rice Maxey and family. Dr. Buckner 
had been their pastor at Albany, Ky. They united with the 
church at Paris in 1858, where General Maxey was a faithful 
deacon to the end of his earthly pilgrimage in 1878. He was 
at one time a member of the Texas Senate. His son, Sam Bell 
Maxey, graduate from West Point, rose to the position of major- 
general in the Confederate Army, and after the Civil War to 
that of United States Senator. A lawyer of eminence and wide 
practice for a half-century, he was a Christian gentleman, a 
man of convictions and a believer in world missions. At his 
funeral, Dr. Buckner could say: "I have never heard so much 



52 Life of R. C. Buckner 

as a whisper that Sam Bell Maxey was ever guilty of a single 
questionable or dishonorable act." 

Later Sam Bell Maxey became a member of the Baptist 
Church at Paris. He sometimes electrified the councils of his 
denomination, as when he addressed the General Association at 
Paris in 1877 on "The Colored Population," and the same body 
at Waco in 1881 on "Christian Hospitality." 

Others of the "calico-bonnet crowd" were Deacon Esquire 
Long and family ; the family of Judge Henry W. Light foot ; the 
trusted deacons, A. P. Hatcher, L. W. Williams, Goodman 
Tucker, William Jones and Colonel George N. Denton, all of 
them pillars in the church and society. 

Deserving of mention also were Deacon and Mrs. L. P. 
Wolfe, parents of the loved layman, M. H. Wolfe, of Dallas, 
Texas. These good people came from South Carolina in 1859. 
They afterwards located near where now stands the town of 
Wolfe City, and were foundation stones in the old Rehoboth 
Church, where Dr. Buckner supplied for several years. While 
he was supplying Rehoboth Church, Sister Wolfe spun, wove, 
cut and made, all with her own hands, a full suit of clothes and 
presented them to her favorite preacher. Dr. Buckner never 
forgot this kind deed. 

Bandbox Preacher. — Did you know they called Dr. Buckner 
the "Bandbox Preacher"? They did all his young days. This 
sobriquet was gained for him by his tidy appearance and his 
soldierly bearing. "Calico-Bonnet Church" and "Bandbox 
Preacher" may sound a bit comical, but there was no misfit. 

War and Work. — The Civil War was raging, and all the 
country groaning and bleeding during the earlier years of this 
pastorate. The strong men were away on the tented field. A 
look into the future could see nothing but darkness. 

It taxed the best pastors to hold even a remnant of their 
flocks together during those dark days. To attempt any forward 
movement seemed but to court failure. But Dr. Buckner never 



Paris Baptist Church and Pastorate 53 

did comprehend the meaning of the word failure. He did not 
even know how to stand still and ''hold the fort." But what 
could he do during those four terrible years? Lay out work 
for everybody and put everybody to work. 

Caring for the Estates of His Brethren. — During the Civil 
War, Pastor Buckner not only cared for the spiritual wants of 
his flock, but looked after the estates of the men who were away 
on the field of carnage. 

Though he also cared for the interests of others, we will 
only refer to the attention he gave a thirty-one-acre orchard and 
vineyard belonging to General Rice Maxey. He kept all the 
grounds of this orchard in good condition, budding, grafting, 
cultivating and transplanting, and did it without charge. But 
labor always brings its reward, and his experience here made 
him an expert vine dresser and orchardist; and right soon he 
had a vineyard of 1,500 bearing plants of his own. 



CHAPTER X 



ORGANIZED AND DOING 



The war was raging and the strong men were away on the 
field of carnage, but nevertheless quite soon the pastor had such 
forces as remained at home well organized and at work. 

It is said that in Virginia the leading question is, "What is 
your pedigree?" In Boston it is, "How much do you know?" 
In New York, "What do you possess?" In Texas, "What can 
you do?" Buckner was not long giving answer to the Texas 
question. 

Prayer Meeting. — A prayer meeting was put in operation 
immediately. It met regularly for many years. During the 
war it was well attended. Wives and mothers came to pray 
together for their husbands and sons on the far-off fields of 
death, and to ask others to pray with them. Every promise in 
the Bible to the desolate heart was hunted up and read in these 
church prayer meetings. 

Sunday School. — About the time of establishing the prayer 
meeting, the pastor led his people to organize a Sunday school, 
which has continued to the time of writing this book) more than 
half a century. Sunday schools were not very common in those 
days, and half the grown-up Christians had never seen one, and 
not a few were opposed to them. To make the Sunday school a 
success, a strong committee was appointed, specially charged 
with its development, called the "Sabbath School Committee." 
Their names were B. F. Fuller, Francis Williams, Clem Wortham, 
S. A. B. Fuller, Cora Dodson, Bell McBath and Rebecca Al- 
bright. Written instructions were given this committee as 
follows : 

54 



Organized and Doing 55 

"As so much depends on the religious and moral training of 
the young, and the proper understanding of the Scriptures by 
all, let it be the duty of this committee to promote the interests 
of the Sabbath school for these purposes. Let this be done by 
interesting parents and children, young and old, to attend regu- 
larly and take an active part. Let the members of the committee 
visit and urge this duty upon all. And let them pray God's 
blessings upon all engaged in this work." 

First Ladies' Aid Society. — Within one month after he be- 
came shepherd, the new leader of the flock at Paris and his wife, 
Mrs. V. L. Buckner, organized the first Ladies' Aid Society in 
Texas. We are not unmindful of the report, away back as far 
as 1832, of a prayer meeting held by Mrs. Massie Millard and 
other Christian women, as they were hiding in a thicket from 
savages near Nacogdoches. And we rejoice to look back on a 
picture of sixty-five women at Nacogdoches in 1839 sewing for 
the poor, and led by Mrs. Antoinette Bledsoe, sister of Margaret 
Lea, who afterwards became the wife of General Sam Houston. 

While these and other efforts move our hearts to thank God, 
yet it remains true that the society of the sisters in the Baptist 
church at Paris in 1861 was the first compact, purposeful and 
permanent organization of Christian women in the State. 

In those days many good people looked on the organization 
of women into societies for Christian Endeavor as an innova- 
tion portending no good. It may surprise the reader that such 
honored and trusted leaders as John A. Broadus, T. T. Eaton, 
and R. C. Burleson looked with grave doubt on such efforts. 
There were plenty of ordained preachers strenuously opposed 
to women's societies, and this state of affairs continued for a 
generation. Some forty years afterwards the writer heard an 
ordained preacher standing before an intelligent audience, declare 
his opposition to woman's work on the ground that he had never 
seen in the New Testament such titles of "Mrs. President," 
"Mrs. Secretary!" 



56 Life of R. C. Buckner 

The society of sisters at Paris was called "The Ladies' 
Sewing Circle." Prominent among its members were Mrs. V. L. 
Buckner, Mrs. M. J. Snow, Mrs. Clem Wortham, Mrs. Virginia 
Dickens, Mrs. Maxey, Mrs. Babcock, Mrs. Jennie Hatcher. 
There were many others. This society did valuable work in 
helping complete and furnish the new meeting house. They 
gave much attention to their own social and religious improve- 
ment. An excellent custom was to appoint one of their number 
to read from a helpful book while the rest were at work. It 
is often said that the best pastor is not the man who does the 
most work himself, but who puts the most people to work. The 
preacher at Paris knew this well, and he also knew well the 
worth of the sisters. 

Besides the committee on Sabbath Schools, already referred 
to, there were six other committees on church work, and there 
were sisters on them all, save the Deacons' Committee. 

It is believed that to list those committees will be helpful to 
other pastors. 

Sick Room Committee. — Instructions: "Let this committee 
see that no sick person be neglected, whether Baptist or not, 
whether Christian or not, and that all sick people are visited 
by at least one of their number, or by others ; and always, when 
prudent, let the subject of religion be talked of. If a visit from 
the pastor is thought to be prudent, let him be advised." 

Strangers and General Visiting Committee.- — Instructions: 
"Let this committee, in a quiet and unobtrusive way, seek the 
acquaintance of strangers who settle in our city, learn from 
them their feelings on the subject of religion, acquaint them 
with our religious meetings, and, if needful, introduce them to 
the pastor and membership of the church. Let the committee 
also encourage others to attend our meetings." 

The Sabbath Committee. — Instructions: "Let this committee 
note every Sabbath-breaker and on suitable occasions approach 
them, not in the spirit of reproof, or of fault-finding, but with 



Organized and Doing 57 

the faithfulness and kindness of a neighbor and the meekness 
of a Christian." 

Committee on Congregational Singing. — This committee had 
charge of the work of instruction and training the membership 
in good congregational singing, and of keeping them trained. 

Temperance Committee. — Instructions: "Let it be the duty 
of this committee to give their personal attention as Christians 
to the crying sin of intemperance, to reform the dissipated and 
prevent others from forming intemperate habits. Let them pray 
fervently and frequently for grace to help and for God to prosper 
their efforts." 

"A Great Harvest." — With committees at work along all the 
lines named in the preceding paragraphs, we would naturally 
expect a good ingathering. We shall not be disappointed. The 
names of the committees included well nigh all the members. They 
were written in a little book with their instructions, which the 
pastor kept, and in that little book was the following prayer: 

"O Lord, bless thy servant. May he be humble and pure in 
heart, sanctified to Thy service and devoted to Thy people's 
spiritual welfare. May the church in whose service Thou hast 
put him be wide-awake and active. May the committees be 
guided by Thy word and Spirit, and may a great harvest be the 
speedy result of the seed they sow. O Lord, we beseech Thee, 
send prosperity; O Lord, revive Thy work." 

The revival came. In June, 1863, a meeting of days was 
begun in which the pastor did nearly all the preaching. It con- 
tinued 90 days. From the first buddings of this revival to its 
close, 99 members were received into the church, 74 by baptism. 

Deacon John W. Jones of Honey Grove, Texas, who attended 
this meeting, writing about it nearly 50 years afterwards, said: 
"Considering the few inhabitants of the country then, it was 
regarded as one of the greatest meetings far and near." 

Began in the Sunday School. — The awakening had its begin- 
ning in the Sunday school and in the pastor's class. Three little 



58 Life of R. C. Buckner 

orphan girls in that class became concerned for their souls. The 
pastor's heart was tender towards them and he was happy to 
baptize them. 

One of the orphans, afterwards known as Clara Babcock, 
had been set out from a wagon passing through the town. She 
was put out in front of the home of Mr. Willet Babcock, and 
kind Mr. Babcock and his wife adopted her. This gentleman 
did not belong to any church. Dr. Buckner baptized his wife. 

Another of these little girls, Dora Moore, was an adopted 
daughter of Senator and Mrs. S. B. Maxey. She was after- 
wards happily married to Hon. Henry W. Lightfoot. The third, 
Mary Gatewood, was a granddaughter of the Senior General 
Maxey. Dr. Buckner married her to her second husband, Mr. 
Terrell, and afterwards buried her in Evergreen Cemetery, of 
which he was one of the founders. 

Newfoundland Dog. — Pastor Buckner sometimes took short 
intervals for rest and recreation, but no vacations. One diver- 
sion at Paris was the training of his fine Newfoundland dog, 
"Lupus." This dog was possessed of remarkable intelligence, 
and in a short time was so well trained as to be the marvel of 
the town. If a basket of fruit was given him, with the com- 
mand, "Carry this to General Maxey's," he would obey. If 
another basket was given him with instructions to carry it to 
another neighbor, he would obey. He could be set to rocking 
the baby and would do his work perfectly. If the children were 
wading in the pond nearby, Lupus would sit and watch with the 
deepest concern; and as soon as a child approached deep water 
he could stand it no longer, but would plunge in and pull him out. 

But alas ! Lupus after a while learned to stroll about town 
and seek the society of the idle and vicious. He learned the 
bad habits of the loafer and the tramp, and right soon was wholly 
unreliable and worthless. He even learned to steal, and one 
night stole meat dosed with strychnine. This was the sad end 
of Lupus. 



Organized and Doing 59 

More than once has Dr. Buckner used this story of Lupus 
to warn his orphan boys, and with good effect. The reader has 
guessed, perhaps, that Dr. Buckner always had some fondness 
for dogs, and has guessed correctly. Once in his boyhood days 
he owned a dog named "Henry Clay," after his favorite poli- 
tician. On one occasion he loaned Henry Clay to some hunters, 
and they lost him in the wild forks of the Cumberland River 
in Kentucky. Forty years afterwards, visiting the county of 
his boyhood, he came to the little town of Bronston in Pulaski 
County. To some men of the town he said : 

"Gentlemen, I have lost my dog, a valuable dog, a fine brindle 
fellow. Have you seen him?" 

"Where? What's his name?" 

"He was lost out in the forks of the Cumberland. His name 
was Henry Clay." 

"When did you lose him?" 

"About forty years ago !" 

A good laugh followed and the Bronston gentlemen made 
Buckner at home. 



CHAPTER XI 



A WIDENING INFLUENCE 



Widening Influence. — As the years passed, the growing work 
done at Paris, Texas, came to be known over all the State of 
Texas and beyond. There were as yet no railroads, nor other 
roads, except mere trails through primeval forests and across 
broad, grass-covered prairies. Nevertheless, prominent brethren, 
patriarchs of the coming Texas Israel, journeyed from distant 
points to visit this young builder at Paris and enjoy his fellow- 
ship. President R. C. Burleson of Waco University came. Like- 
wise Editor J. B. Link from Houston. Then the three distin- 
guished preachers and educators, W. B. Featherstone, W. J. 
Brown and J. R. Clark. Also came Joshua F. Johnson, preacher 
and statesman. Also the towering S. R. Freeman, D. D., of 
Jefferson, Texas, whose sun went out at high noon, leaving his 
church in tears. You would expect preacher and builder, J. T. S. 
Park — he came too. And quite refreshing to both the guests 
and host were visits from the missionaries of Indian Territory, 
H. F. Buckner, R. J. Hogue and D. R. Potts. There . were 
others, among them the man of might, J. R. Graves, of Tennessee. 

When the "Texas Baptist Herald" at Houston was yet but 
a little way started on its light-giving career, R. C. Buckner was 
engaged as one of its paid correspondents. 

General Association, 1868. — Those days following the Civil 
War were trying days. It was a time when the denomination 
was on the lookout for men of worth and leadership. They were 
needed in the great councils and on the field. The brethren 
seemed to think that Buckner had come to the kingdom for such 
a time as this. We note the recognition given him at the first 
session of the Baptist General Association. This meeting was 
held at Chatfield in Navarro County, July 17-20, 1868. Dr. 

60 



A Widening Influence 61 

Buckner was present, not as a messenger, but as a visitor. Other 
visitors of note were Elders M. V. Smith, W. J. Brown, William 
Manning, John Manning, J. M. McGraw and S. E. Brooks 
(father of President S. P. Brooks, of Baylor University). 

All the visitors were allowed to sit as interested spectators, 
save R. C. Buckner. He was made chairman of the Committee 
on Home (State) Missions, with L. Holland and T. Pyle as his 
associates ; a member of the committee to audit the books of the 
sainted D. B. Morrill (deceased general agent), with B. Wilmot 
and W. L. Foster as associates; a member of the committee to 
nominate and locate the boards, with R. C. Burleson, J. Beal, 
M. Carter, W. L. Foster, J. B. Link and J. T. Hand as other 
members. 

General J. E. Harrison, president of the Association, added 
Dr. Buckner to the Missionary Board, and on motion of Dr. 
Burleson he was made one of the corresponding messengers to 
the next meeting of the Baptist State Convention. On the Sab- 
bath night he was asked to preach, and the next day was made 
alternate with Josiah Leake to preach the next annual association 
sermon. 

Report on Home Missions. — "Home Missions" meant mis- 
sionary operations within the bounds of the General Association. 
Dr. Buckner wrote the report on Home Missions at Chatfield 
in 1868. It was unanimously adopted as follows: 

"Your committee on Home Missions entertain the opinion 
that nothing merits a more thorough and prayerful examination 
by this body than this particular work. Its great importance 
and pressing claims require not only concert of action, but also 
the highest degree of Christian energy. It is emphatically the 
work for which we are assembled, and all other subjects that we 
have under consideration are important only from their connec- 
tion with this. 

"In considering this subject the following question first 
occurs: What is the extent of the field of our operations, and 



62 Life of R. C. Buckner 

the destitution within it? The territory occupied by this asso- 
ciation extends 300 miles east and west, and north and south 
about 225 miles, embracing a large number of extensive and 
populous counties. We know of but two churches in all this 
vast region that have preaching every Sabbath. Several that 
were self-sustaining previous to the late war are now extinct, 
and many of the most important towns and neighborhoods are 
without Baptist churches, and wholly destitute of gospel preach- 
ing. Add to this the fact that in many communities where an 
occasional sermon is preached, the doctrines characteristic of 
our churches and essential to the perpetuity of the Redeemer's 
Kingdom have been but seldom, if ever, advocated, and the 
destitution will appear really alarming, and the work of supply- 
ing it equal to our energies and all our means combined. 

"Now, what system shall be adopted for the regulation of 
our efforts to supply this destitution? We think efforts should 
be made to reorganize our disorganized churches, to act in con- 
cert with and assist weak churches in supporting their pastors, 
and with executive boards of district associations in the ap- 
pointment and support of missionaries ; and also, as nearly as 
possible, to settle at every important destitute point a preacher 
of undoubted piety and fair ability, who will zealously labor to 
build up a permanent interest in his immediate field and to supply 
the destitution near him. When this cannot be done, let him 
preach regularly at several important localities, so that he may 
be sustained by the people to whom he preaches. In addition 
to all this, as many traveling missionaries should be employed 
as can be supported, and suitable fields assigned them. 

"To carry out this plan efficiently we should have a general 
agent, competent to advocate and defend our peculiar doctrines, 
and to explain and impress upon district associations, churches 
and communities the nature and merits of this system, and to 
aid in the selection and encouragement of suitable ministers to 
effect its purposes. We feel confident, however, that success 



A Widening Influence 63 

cannot be attained without united and self-sacrificing efforts by 
churches, pastors and missionaries, all impressed with the value 
of souls, and feeling constrained by the love of Christ. In view 
of the great work before us, and of the importance of concen- 
trated and systematic effort, your committee recommends the 
adoption of the following resolutions: 

"Resolved, That this Association adopt and recommend to 
the district associations and churches within its bounds, the 
system suggested in this report. 

"Resolved, That in our opinion much good would result from 
holding monthly concerts of prayer in all the churches, imploring 
God to increase the missionary spirit among us, and to attend 
our efforts with His blessings." 

General Agent Called For. — In the foregoing report on Home 
Missions is pictured the field of the General Association and its 
imperative needs, and a plan of work suggested for supplying 
these needs. The report calls for a competent General Agent 
to carry the plan into effect and superintend its operations. It 
was his business to bring the work to the highest degree of effi- 
ciency possible. One must be chosen for that work who is "com- 
petent to advocate and defend our peculiar doctrines, to explain 
and impress upon district associations, churches and communities 
the nature and merit of systematic and vigorous mission work." 

R. C. Buckner, General Agent. — When Joseph counseled 
Pharaoh to appoint a man "wise and discreet," to provision 
Egypt against the coming famine, Pharaoh said : "There is none 
so discreet and wise as thou art," and he immediately appointed 
Joseph. So when R. C. Buckner wrote: "We should have a 
General Agent," the Missionary Board got together and elected 
R. C. Buckner. Then the board sent a petition to the church at 
Paris, asking that church to release its pastor "for a year or 
more" that he might "enter upon the work of General Agent." 

This request from the Missionary Board was granted. But he 
continued to supply the church for another year, though travel- 



64 Life of R. C. Buckner 

ing much and doing a prodigious work for the General Asso- 
ciation. 

He distributed printed forms for letters from churches to 
district associations and to the General Association. He trav- 
eled much, visiting churches and associations, everywhere preach- 
ing the gospel and forwarding missionary effort. Pastors were 
encouraged to supply adjacent destitution. New churches were 
set up and weak churches strengthened. The associations were 
assisted to put strong men in the field. Many churches and 
associations not affiliating were encouraged to send messengers 
to the meeting of the General Association, which was to be held 
at Tyler in July, 1869. 

He was everywhere received with joy, and the funds for 
missionary work were put into his hands. It was at a time when 
there was very little money in the country. The amount raised 
for all purposes was close to $1,000.00. About $80.00 of this 
was for ministerial education. Then at the next meeting at 
Tyler more than $500.00 was raised and added to the amount 
for ministerial education. 

Under the direction of the General Agent, nine missionaries 
labored in different parts of the Association. They were sus- 
tained mainly by collections on their fields. The important towns 
of Dallas, Sherman and Jefferson were supplied with regular 
preaching. The General Agent held a fruitful meeting at Sher- 
man, and organized the church there. In this he was assisted 
by Elder T. B. McComb, who lived to a ripe old age at Van 
Alstyne. During this meeting he baptized Dr. J. B. Stenson 
and other leading citizens. 

A sermon preached by Dr. Buckner while General Agent had 
the effect of leading John H. Boyet to investigate the teachings 
of the New Testament, which resulted in his becoming a Baptist. 
Boyett was quite young at that time and a Methodist. Hear 
him: "He so impressed me with the need of an intelligent per- 
sonal loyalty to Christ, and what the Bible requires, that I went 



A Widening Influence 65 

quietly home determined to know for myself the path of obedi- 
ence, and to do the will of Christ in the matter of baptism. Two 
years later, I joined the Baptist church as the result of study 
and prayer. That sermon has affected my whole life as a 
preacher and Christian." Dr. Boyett is well known over the 
whole South. 

The year's work under General Agent Buckner resulted in 
one hundred and fifty-nine baptisms, seventy-nine received by 
letter, nine prayer meetings, four Sunday schools and three 
churches organized. When Dr. Buckner began work as Gen- 
eral Agent there were sixteen churches and two district associa- 
tions cooperating. When he had labored a year, messengers 
were sent to the next annual meeting from thirty-nine churches 
and eleven associations. He did all this work without salary 
and no debt was made. 

In 1869 Dr. Buckner was re-elected General Agent, and this 
time the church at Paris called Elder W. M. Burke as supply 
from September to January, when the pastor again took charge. 
He resigned the work of General Agent, because his work at 
Paris imperatively demanded his presence. 

During the five months from August 1 to December 31 he 
put in full time and had two other strong preachers on the field. 
The two other preachers were M. C. St. Clair and J. Ziegler. 

The next session of the General Association was held at 
Paris, and was entertained by Pastor Buckner's church. It was 
the second annual session. Great dishes of smoking biscuit, and 
appetizing barbecue, and toothsome "yellowfoot" caught the 
whole company of guests. They fell in love with Paris and 
held, in all, three sessions of the General Association there, 
whereas only two sessions were held at any other point. 

At this meeting in Paris, 1870, there was subscribed for 
home missions $1000.00 to start the work off well for another 
year. 

Dr. Buckner gave his time as General Agent without salary. 



CHAPTER XII 

STRENGTHENING THE WORK AT PARIS 

A Question of Duty. — It was a true saying of Dr. B. H. 
Carroll that "Duties never conflict." But that truth had been 
known in the Baptist family all the way back to Jesus Christ and 
John. Most assuredly was it known to R. C. Buckner. 

The work at Paris had suffered for seventeen months, while 
the pastor was away laboring to advance the mission interests 
of the General Association. A supply preacher for five months 
helped the cause some, but the supply preacher was not the 
shepherd. Even under the hand of the supply preacher, the 
people "fainted and were scattered abroad as sheep having no 
shepherd." The heart of the "Good Shepherd" was moved with 
compassion. So also was the heart of the undershepherd, and 
what must he do? 

The brethren of the church at Paris felt keenly the need of 
their pastor. A stranger they would not follow. They came 
together and by unanimous vote asked him to come back and 
feed and lead the flock. "Duties never conflict," and a shep- 
herd's first duty is to attend his flock. The God of Missions 
was able to take care of the mission work, even a work of such 
import "that all other subjects were considered important only 
from their connections with this." The pastor returned to his 
people. 

Rejuvenating His Church. — Returning to his church, the 
pastor found his brethren discouraged. They had grown cold 
and unsympathetic. They were wanting in zeal. Cooperation 
was indifferent. The congregation had fallen off sadly in num- 
bers. As he took in the situation, he set to work with great 

66 



Strengthening the Work at Paris 67 

zeal. Church work was reorganized and the entire body rejuve- 
nated. A series of meetings was held for building up the church 
in doctrine and active work. As a result of this series of meet- 
ings, the church was greatly strengthened and ten new members 
added, four of them by experience and baptism. Then the 
meeting house was repaired at a cost of $500. Lights, and fur- 
niture, and a melodeon were put in at a cost of $300. Liberal 
contributions were made to missions, and the pastor's salary 
was paid promptly. Glad songs were sung and thanksgiving 
prayers offered. The old-time life had returned. 

We have referred to the melodeon, as the church organ of 
that day was called. The organist was Pastor Buckner's little 
daughter, Mary Bell. She was too small to reach the pedals, 
and another had to pump the instrument. But she was able to 
carry the music. Thus we see in early childhood a prophecy 
of that remarkable musical talent which in after life placed her 
in the position of musical director of Buckner Orphans Home. 

A sermon that touched the church to its soul was preached 
on the first Sunday in January, 187 1. This sermon reviewed 
the year of 1870, and also pointed to the future path of duty 
before the church. Its bold rhetoric, its searching interrogato- 
ries, its conquering logic and its many finger boards are well 
worth careful study. An abridgment is here given. 

New Year's Sermon, 187 1. — Text: So teach us to number 
our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Psalm 
90:12. 

"The great current of human life is constantly flowing, and 
is incessantly carrying immortal souls into the boundless gulf of 
eternity. This stream is supplied by every nation, kingdom, 
tongue and tribe, and borne along on its irresistible tide are the 
young and old, the high and low, the rich and poor. How many 
have gone since the beginning of A. D. 1870! And look, that 
year itself has just been added to the Eternal Past. Yes, time 
itself is passing away. The vibrations of its pendulum are with- 



68 Life of R. C. Buckner 

out intermission, and every vibration shortens our lives. Mo- 
ment by moment it transmits the hours of our existence to the 
past. And think how rapidly those hours become days, and 
that all the days of our years are but three score years and ten ! 

You Make Calculations.— -"Many times you have gone over 
the calculation, subtracting your age from the number of years 
allotted to the average human life, and wondering whether or 
not you would be spared to the end of that period. Various 
motives have prompted you to make this calculation. Perhaps it 
has been that you might make the necessary preparations for the 
comfort of your family in this life. Or, that you might divide 
your time between the acquisition of knowledge and property. 
Or, that you might employ more time pleasure seeking. Some, 
perhaps, are influenced by motives of a more serious character. 
But, alas, how few consider the number of their days with an 
eye to their obligations to God, and the eternal interest of their 
souls! He is not a wise man who, after counting his money 
carefully, stores it away in some secure place to be added to by 
his hard earnings, for wisdom would prompt him to invest it 
judiciously, that with his five pounds he might gain five pounds 
more. Neither is he a good financier who makes money rapidly, 
if he spends it with reckless indifference to its value. 

"Now time is said to be money. But really it is worth more 
than money, for with time enough, money a plenty can be ob- 
tained. But if you possessed all the gold that has ever been 
taken out of the earth you could not purchase one moment of 
time. Yet time, precious as it is, may like money be thrown 
away. It may be spent to profit, or wasted in riotous living. 
How have we been spending our time during the past year? 
And how do we propose to spend the present year? 

A Retrospect. — "As the experience of the past may be made 
profitable in the future, I propose that we retrospect our history 
as a church and as individuals during the past year. In doing 
this, we shall likely be more powerfully impressed with the fact 



Strengthening the Work at Paris 69 

that time may be wasted by the neglect of duties and privileges, 
and by the commission of sin; and that it may be employed to 
great profit in the service of God. Have we spent the past year 
as with a knowledge of the value of time in the service of God? 
We have not been altogether inactive. We have made progress, 
though the year's work was commenced with great embarrass- 
ment. 

"At the beginning of the year the discouraged flock had been 
shepherdless for seventeen months. The wolf had made his 
appearance and scattered the sheep. Some were wounded and 
some gone. At your first meeting in January, you voted, asking 
your pastor to return, he having been relieved for seventeen 
months at the request of the General Association that he might 
travel as their General Agent. We set to work with efforts 
somewhat united, and from the outset proceeded upon the Scrip- 
tural plan of meeting for worship every Sabbath. Interest 
improved and the congregation increased. 

"All the year, the pastor carried burdens that can be known 
to none save himself and his God. A sermon was preached on 
'The Fearful Responsibilities of the Ministry/ which had the 
effect of awakening sympathy for the preacher and of moving 
some to offer prayer for him. This was good. Another sermon 
was preached on 'The Claims and Watchful Care of the Lord 
Our Shepherd/ This was designed to move us to gratitude and 
faith and service. After this, another element of society was 
reached by a series of sermons on 'The Destiny of Man/ Then 
the regular services were interrupted while your pastor was 
away six weeks, holding meetings in Shreveport and Jefferson. 
We all thank God for many souls saved in those meetings. I 
remember hearing some of you brethren predict that the pastor's 
absence to hold those meetings would again have the effect of 
diminishing the congregation. And so it did. Then followed 
our own meeting of days, during which all who attended regu- 
larly were revived. But some did not attend. 'Thomas called 



70 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Didymus was not there.' But the Lord gave us ten additions, 
four by experience and baptism, and six by letter and restoration. 
These employed their time to profit. But how many wasted 
those days of opportunity? Then we went to work and re- 
paired and refitted our meeting house at a cost of $800. You 
joyfully gave $50 for missions and you are pledged for a much 
larger sum. You have paid your pastor his full $800 and other 
home expenses amounting to $50. Our gain in members has 
been nine, and we have been called on to mourn one dead. 

"What have we done as individuals in the service of our 
God? I will not mention names. Let memory, as the author- 
ized sheriff, go out with summons and bring every act before 
the bar of conscience. Have you given of your means as the 
Lord has prospered you? Have you grown in grace and in the 
knowledge of the truth? Have you made progress in spiritual 
life? 

"Dear unsaved sinner, how have you spent the past year? 
What has been your attitude toward your God? What provi- 
sion have you made for your soul? Are you any nearer pre- 
pared for death and the Judgment than you were a year ago? 
Have you suffered the whole year to run to waste? How much 
time have you spent in sin and how have you multiplied iniqui- 
ties? Remember this : No day nor hour of the past can be called 
back. 

The Year Now Before Us. — "The past year is gone. Not a 
moment will return at our beck. But the New Year of 1871 
is before us. How are you going to use it ? It is before us as 
a clean white sheet of paper. Not a blot has been made on it, 
not a mark. On this sheet is to be written our history for the 
twelve months. What shall that history be? It stands before 
us as a kind friend with winning smiles, loving heart and ex- 
tended hands, holding out to us comforts and aid on the way to 
heaven. Shall we be rude to our friend, deny ourselves of his 
offered comforts and of his generous aid? The New Year is 



Strengthening the Work at Paris 71 

before us, a beautiful garden through which we must pass. Shall 
we like earthworms feed upon the earth? Or shall we, like 
beings with souls, regale ourselves with the flowers and their 
sweets? Are not the countless flowers that shall blossom in its 
bosom intended for us? For whom will God's golden sun paint 
the flowers and ripen the fruit ? For you ! For me ! Shall we 
not reach forth and pluck our own with thanksgiving? 

"Let us be happy. Let us serve our God. Let us so number 
our days that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. In this 
garden our stay will be brief. The year 1871 will soon pass. 
During the year what shall we do as a church? Grow in spir- 
itual strength? In doctrine and faith? In numbers and influ- 
ence? You will be as a city set on a hill and the eyes of the 
world will be upon you. How will we appear as individual 
Christians? We will be known and read of all men. Sinner, 
what will you do ? Will you answer now as you value your soul ? 
Apply your hearts unto wisdom. You invest your money judi- 
ciously — why not your time? Remember that time is not the 
measure of your existence." 



CHAPTER XIII 



BUSINESS VENTURES 



Business Ventures. — A venture that molded North Texas 
Baptists into one was launched January 3, 1874. Not only did 
it give shape to North Texas, but its influence was felt to the 
confines of the State. It was a venture that continued nearly 
ten years, and was a success. We refer to the launching of 
a The Religious Messenger." The "Messenger" was the answer 
to a long-felt need that voiced itself in a call made by an assem- 
bly of ministers and deacons in Lamar County in 1873. Not 
alone for the space of ten years was its influence felt, but its 
messages went into the hearts of the people, creating therein 
ideals of sacrifice and service to be transmitted to future gen- 
erations far down to the day when our Lord shall come again. 

Before viewing this enterprise, let us take a backward look 
with glances at some other ventures that with entertaining promi- 
nence stand forth along R. C. Buckner's life road. As a rule, 
preachers are not credited with having a reserve fund of busi- 
ness sense. But will they not compare favorably with men in 
other walks? With a smaller salary and with a larger family, 
the preacher usually feeds, clothes and educates his children 
better than his average secular brother, and then has a larger 
sum to give away. Or else his wife does it. 

It is not within the scope of this work to cite shining exam- 
ples. Later on, our eyes may see in Buckner Orphans Home 
an illustration of business sagacity scarcely matched, and yet it 
was born and nurtured in the brain and heart of one Baptist 
preacher. 

Pocket Change. — A boy is "no boy at all" without a little 

72 



Business Ventures 73 

pocket change. It was so in the days when Robert Buckner 
was a boy.- While attending the "Brick Seminary" at Somerset, 
Ky., it was common in summer to see Robert Buckner coming 
into town perched on the back of gentle "Jennie Graw," with a 
sack of fine melons in front. The melons were left with an 
accommodating grocer to sell. But the grocer did not sell them 
all. At recess, while the other boys were at their games — ball 
and marbles and foot race — Robert might be seen speeding to 
this same grocer's to take inventory of the remnant of his stock. 
And see, he is facing the passing crowds and crying, "Melons, 
Mister, Melons!" And selling them and providing the boy life 
necessity, the inevitable pocket change. 

Gold Watch on a Credit. — This, too, was when he was a boy. 
The watch was bought of a neighbor boy for $40, for which 
Robert gave his note. Promissory notes were not "as plentiful 
as autumn leaves" in those good days. When the note was 
drawn up for the watch, according to the form found in their 
school arithmetic, the honest boys did not know who should 
hold it Young Buckner assured his friend that the payee was 
the proper one to hold the note. "No," he replied, "the man 
who pays must hold it, so he can tell when it falls due!" 

The note was paid. But who was that boy? None other 
than W. H. Prather, afterwards Captain Prather during the 
Civil War, and later leading citizen, business man and deacon 
in Dallas, Texas. Esteemed and honored by all who knew him, 
he bequeathed to his family a modest competency, and what is 
far better, the unweighed treasure of a good name. 

Many years afterwards, this watch was traded for orchard 
and vineyard stock, which was planted at Paris, Texas, culti- 
vated and brought to abundant fruitage, and then converted into 
$3,000 A decade later this $3,000 helped to equip the plant 
that gave to the world "The Texas Baptist." 

Abou* this time, Dr. G. E. Long, brother to Mrs. R. C. Buck- 
ner, bought out a small newspaper in Paris in order to get pos- 



74 Life of R. C. Buckner 

session of the printing plant. Some of the preacher's funds 
went into this plant, and at length he became joint owner, and 
then full owner, of this printing plant. He was now equipped 
in a small way for publishing a paper. He had some ambition 
to serve his brethren in North Texas by publishing a denomina- 
tional journal. There was a demand for it. At this time, he 
was a paid contributor to the "Texas Baptist Herald," pub- 
lished in Houston, Texas. The fact that his talent was in demand 
inspired hope that he might publish an acceptable paper. 

Baptist Paper Called For. — When the Baptist General Asso- 
ciation met in Chatfield, 1868, and at Tyler, 1869, resolutions 
were adopted commending the "Texas Baptist Herald," and 
yet the question, "Do we not need a paper in the bounds of the 
General Association?" was in the minds of hundreds of breth- 
ren. And they were ready to welcome a paper that would rep- 
resent the interests of the General Association and of Waco 
University, which seemed to be the coming school. The circu- 
lation of the "Texas Baptist Herald" was limited on the field 
of the General Association. For a while the brethren hesitated 
and letters and circulars were sent to all parts of the field to 
keep the churches informed. 

But the country was rapidly filling up. Railroads were build- 
ing. The rich lands of North Texas were in demand. Thriving 
communities, growing villages and stirring cities were coming 
into notice, and the Baptists were beginning to feel that they 
had a place and a mission. Then at a representative meeting of 
ministers and deacons, in 1873, a resolution was adopted to 
start a paper in North Texas, and R. C. Buckner was elected 
editor. He believed the call to be of God. In May of that 
year, he presented his resignation to the church at Paris, and 
during the remainder of the year he was on the field holding 
meetings and collecting funds for the work of the General 
Association. 

The Religious Messenger. — On January 3, 1874, Dr. Buckner 



Business Ventures 75 

brought out the initial number of "The Religious Messenger." 
He was worth at that time about $18,000. Many friends were 
in doubt as to the wisdom of this new venture. The entire 
State had not given the "Texas Baptist Herald" sufficient sup- 
port More than once good men had made liberal contributions 
to keep it going, though years afterwards that paper paid all 
the money back. 

A few months after launching "The Religious Messenger," 
a Mr. Peterson, who claimed to be an infidel, set up in Paris an 
expensive printing office, with cylinder press, and began pub- 
lishing a secular paper. He was scarcely started in this enter- 
prise when he challenged the editor of "The Religious Messen- 
ger" to a debate, saying it would help both papers by causing 
their friends to stand by them. There was no debate. But it 
was not long before "The Religious Messenger" owned Mr. 
Peterson's fine job office. 

The paper prospered. It stood for evangelical religion, for 
the old-time Baptist faith, and for missionary activity. Its voice 
was heard in favor of Sunday schools, of Ladies' Aid Societies, 
of Bible and colportage work, of Christian education, of prohi- 
bition and of civic righteousness. 

Moved to Dallas. — After a year at Paris, the paper was 
moved to Dallas, as offering a more central location and better 
mailing facilities. At the same time there was opened in con- 
nection with it a Texas Baptist Book Depository, in which was 
kept on sale a large stock of Bibles, religious books, song books, 
tracts and Sunday school supplies. In February, 1875, Rev. 
L. W. Coleman became associated with Dr. Buckner as busi- 
ness manager of the paper, and the book department. He was 
a young preacher of excellent attainments, had been educated 
at Mississippi College and had been connected with the Southern 
Baptist Publishing House of Memphis, Tenn. He traveled some 
for the paper, but mainly he did the office work while Dr. 
Buckner was field man. 



76 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Name Changed to The Texas Baptist. — In January, 1876, the 
name of the paper was changed to "The Texas Baptist." Dr. 
Buckner had some nice compliments on this change. Among 
others, Dr. J. R. Graves of Tennessee wrote: "That name will 
win." The paper was now well on its feet. It held up its head 
and wore an air of optimism. It enlarged to sixteen pages. 
Those who doubted at the beginning became confident. It was 
paying its way and doing good. 

The deacon was found. His duties were outlined in many 
editorials. He was made to hear the orphan's cry. He was 
aroused. He said, "We must build an Orphans Home." Dr. 
W. H. Trollinger, deacon at Whitesboro, came to the front with 
a proposition to give one-seventh of his professional earnings. 
Deacon F. H. Oglevie of Anna gave $15.65, the proceeds of 
one acre of wheat. Others gave various amounts. The 
Deacons' Convention at Paris, July 17, 1877, resolved to build 
the Orphans Home when $2000 should be in hand. This con- 
vention, which was called by Dr. Trollinger at the earnest writ- 
ten request of the editor of "The Texas Baptist," was liberally 
advertised through the paper and was large and representative. 

He now gave himself with great zeal, and without salary, to 
the work of building up Buckner Orphans Home, supporting 
himself and family out of the earnings of "The Texas Baptist." 

Dr. B. H. Carroll wrote, January, 1878: "Brother Buckner's 
paper has grown on me in spite of myself. As a publisher, 
Brother Buckner is a decided success." The Baptist population 
in the bounds of the General Association was at that time about 
40,000, and yet the paper had a subscription list of 5,000. 

Sold to S. A. Hay den. — In June, 1883, Dr. Buckner sold his 
paper to Dr. S. A. Hay den. At the time of selling, he outlined in 
his valedictory what he thought would be the wisest policy for the 
paper to pursue under the new management. We quote: 

"The advocacy of two general missionary organizations for 
the whole State — one for the North and one for the South — 



Business Ventures 77 

working harmoniously and with mutual recognition as to terri- 
tory, and in every particular. And if this should fail, to advo- 
cate as the next best thing, one organization for the entire State." 

Dr. Hayden accepted this as the true policy, and in his Salu- 
tatory announced that it would be the future policy of the paper. 
Following are his words: 

"As to organization, our idea of the best thing is an organi- 
zation for the North and an organization for the South, each 
working in cooperation with the other for the advancement of 
righteousness in all that that word comprehends. The next best 
thing in our opinion is one general convention for the whole 
State, under a management so large-hearted and liberal as to 
secure the cooperation and sympathy of every other section." 

Dr. Buckner's Business Maxims. — The following maxims 
were printed in "The Texas Baptist," January 13, 1875. Those 
of us who know Dr. Buckner best know that these maxims were 
a part of his very life: 

Don't stop to tell stories in business hours. 

No man can get rich sitting around stores and saloons. 

Never "fool" in business matters. 

Have order, system, regularity, promptness. 

Do not meddle with business you know nothing about. 

Do not "kick" every one in your path. 

More miles can be made in a day by going steadily than by 
stopping. 

Pay as you go. 

Help others when you can, but never give what you cannot 
afford to, simply to make a display. 

Learn to say No. No necessity for snapping it out dog- 
fashion, but say it firmly and respectfully. 

Use your own brains rather than those of others. 

Learn to think and act for yourself. 

Keep ahead rather than behind the times. 

Another : A day of idleness tires more than a week of work. 



CHAPTER XIV 



THE TEXAS BAPTIST 



The Texas Baptist. — The Texas Baptist has already been 
referred to. But who has traced the unfolding and expansion 
of a religious paper? Who has measured its strength? "Will 
he make many supplications unto thee ? Will he make a covenant 
unto thee? Will thou take him for thy servant? Wilt thou 
play with him as with a bird, or wilt thou bind him for thy 
maidens ?" 

The religious paper lines up the multitude. Its eye sees every 
step, forward or backward, of men and religion. It speaks 
without appointment on the program, and without being called 
to the platform. It proclaims or suppresses the opinions of 
men at pleasure. It turns on the light and turns it off. It puts 
the plume in the cap of whom it will. 

Edited on the Wing. — During the entire ten years of his 
editorial life, R. C. Buckner was much on the wing. His edi- 
torials were written on trains, in hotels and in the homes of his 
brethren. He never once thought of a closed up "sanctum," 
away from the "bother" of callers, and out of reach of the 
"noise" of the on-rushing multitudes. He was among, and one 
of, the Baptist people. He held meetings with many pastors, 
attended associations, collected for missions and the Orphans 
Home, and dedicated meeting houses. 

Dedication at Ennis. — We will stop to look in on only one of 
those dedication services, the giving to the Lord of the new 
meeting house at Ennis. The day was Sabbath, January 28, 1876. 

H. F. Buckner, of the Creek Indian Nation, was visiting his 
brother at Dallas, and the two went to Ennis together on Satur- 

78 






The Texas Baptist 79 

day. On Saturday night, H. F. Buckner presented the claims 
of Indian missions. Sunday morning, R. C. Buckner preached, 
after which the new meeting house was solemnly and joyfully 
dedicated to God by prayer. It was a neat house, furnished with 
lamps, carpets and bell, all paid for. At 4 o'clock p. m. a Sunday 
school was organized. At night, after preaching by H. F. 
Buckner, the Lord's Supper was administered. 

The Buckner brothers did not meet often. This visit of 
H. F. Buckner is thus sketched by himself: "I could not, if I 
would, portray the joy and satisfaction incident to the meeting 
of two only brothers, who seldom meet. This joy is so sacred 
that it belongs not to the public. I was baptized the year before 
the editor of "The Texas Baptist" was born. Soon after that 
I went to the Seminary, then to Alabama, where I commenced 
preaching. When I met with brother again it was his time to 
go to college, and before he left college I hid myself as an Indian 
missionary. We seldom meet in this world, but we hope to 
meet at home, in our Father's house on high." 

General Agent. — As the editor of "The Texas Baptist" was 
constantly on the field, his brethren determined to make him 
superintendent of missions. For a good while he turned a deaf 
ear to every hint and suggestion pointing to that work. But 
early in 1877 the Board of the General Association came to- 
gether and elected him, any way. Then was he overcome with 
affectionate messages such as the following: 

"My advice is, accept and go to work. I will sustain you — 
B. H. Carroll." 

"I think you ought to take the field. You are the man. The 
cause of the Master demands it. It will cause you sacrifices, 
but it is not so hard after all. A life of love and a death of 
peace await a work like this. — J. M. Myers." (Veteran Mis- 
sionary.) 

"I write to express my approbation, and offer my prayers, 



80 Life of R. C. Buckner 

sympathy and cooperation. — W. O. Bailey." (Pastor at Jef- 
ferson.) 

"Take the work for the General Association, and do good. — 
S. J. Anderson." (Pastor at Sulphur Springs.) 

"I write to urge you to take the field. By all means take 
the field, and come to see us. — J. C. Gee." (Layman and 
financier, Greenville.) 

"I heartily approve. This is the way to effectually reach 
the churches. Many pastors need stirring up. — Professor W. J. 
Brown." (Cleburne Institute.) 

Dr. Buckner accepted and went to work. An editorial in 
an issue of "The Texas Baptist," March, 1877, runs thus : "Ne- 
cessity is laid upon me. From the time we began the publication 
of this paper, it has been understood that, as before, the preach- 
ing of the gospel was to occupy much of our time. Much of 
it has been spent among the churches in protracted meetings. 
But we are now called to a work we had not anticipated. The 
board has voted us the appointment as General Agent. But so 
numerous have been the letters and requests urging us to accept 
that we recognize a call also from the brethren. 

"The old Ladonia Board (186S-1870) stood by us and ap- 
proved the work. We donated our time during that seventeen 
months. Had we not done so, the Association would have been 
involved in debt. We could not support a reasonable number 
of missionaries and pay for agency work. For the same reason 
we decline accepting salary, as we did then. A reasonable salary 
has been offered, but "The Texas Baptist" is supporting us. 
We decline salary, not as a precedent for future operations, but 
considering the fact that our missionaries need every dollar that 
can be raised." He also paid his own traveling expenses, and 
made the work a success, continuing till January, 1882. 

"The Texas Baptist/' Its On-Going. — Shall we trail the foot- 
steps of "The Texas Baptist"? The walk would be too long. 



The Texas Baptist 81 

Only at intervals and distances can we view its going, or hear 
its voice. And then briefly. At the closing of Volume III (1876) 
we read this editorial note: "There has been a great rallying to 
'The Texas Baptist/ which has even astonished its originators." 

Then in the opening of Volume IV (1877) this editorial: 

"The paper has lost but few friends, and has gained many. 
One good pastor said at the beginning, 'I have no sympathy for 
the enterprise.' But now he says, 'God bless you, I shall do all 
I can for it.' Said a brother, 'No, I will not subscribe. I see 
your financial ruin/ Next year, 'I thought you were going 
downhill, but I see you are climbing. Take my name and this 
$2.50/ Then a year later, 'You are safe now. I have $25 to 
spare — here it is. Keep my name on your list/ The paper is 
paying its way and supplying us with food and raiment, and 
we remember the New Testament injunction, 'Be content.' " 

What of the paper's tone five years later? Listen: "This 
year is 1882, and with it 'The Texas Baptist' begins its ninth 
year. The sea is calm. The right to sail is no longer disputed. 
No man-of-war now turns its broadside with open portholes, 
nor recklessly approaches with black flag in its own created 
storm. Ours is no war vessel, but its right to the sea must be 
respected and its crew of passengers protected." 

B. H. Carroll, Associate, Fourth Year. — This excerpt is taken 
from his "Salutatory": "With this number, August 30, 1877, 
my name appears as associate editor. The motive is to do the 
most good in my power. I believe the editor, Elder R. C. Buck- 
ner, to be a good man, a praying man, humble as a laborer. I 
regard his paper as a success, financially and otherwise, sound 
in doctrine, Baptistic." 

As a doctrinal trumpet "The Texas Baptist" gave no uncer- 
tain sound. Volumes were spoken. Some brief condensations 
are here preserved. 

"New Testament Church." — "A New Testament Church is a 
voluntary society of baptized believers in Christ, associated to- 



82 Life of R. C. Buckner 

gether for worship, recognizing Christ as their only lawgiver, 
and keeping the ordinances as they were delivered." 

Following this definition, the paper gives seven syllogistic 
deductions: "The New Testament Church is composed of mem- 
bers voluntarily associated for the worship of God; infants are 
neither capable of entering into a voluntary society nor of wor- 
shiping of God; therefore, societies composed, even in part, of 
infants are not New Testament Churches. 

"The New Testament Church is composed of baptized be- 
lievers. None are baptized but those who are immersed; there- 
fore, no society is a New Testament Church, even if composed 
of believers, unless they have been immersed. 

"A New Testament Church is composed of persons who have 
been immersed upon a profession of faith in Christ. ('Who- 
soever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God.') There- 
fore, no society is a gospel church, even if its members have 
been immersed, unless they were 'born again' before their baptism. 

"No one has a right to administer church ordinances who is 
not himself a church officer; no man is a church officer who is 
not a church member; therefore, those who do not belong to a 
voluntary society of immersed believers can have no right to 
administer church ordinances. 

"None are properly baptized except those who are immersed 
by the authority of a New Testament Church. No one has the 
right to administer baptism unless he be a church member. 
Therefore, they are not properly baptized who are immersed 
by persons not themselves members of a society of immersed 
believers. 

"Baptism is prerequisite to communion at the Lord's table; 
nothing is baptism but the immersion of a believer; therefore, 
none but immersed believers have the right to commune at the 
Lord's table. 

"Church membership is prerequisite to communion at the 
Lord's table. The immersion of a believer by a proper adminis- 



The Texas Baptist 83 

trator is prerequisite to church membership; therefore, none 
have a right to communion at the Lord's table who have not 
been immersed upon a confession of faith by a proper adminis- 
trator." 

"A converted membership is so essential that all other forms 
and requirements are worthless without it." — March 13, 1876. 

"We need more than a correct system of faith and the proper 
forms of worship. We need heartfelt religion." April 6, 1876. 

Queries and Answers. — This was a regular department in the 
paper, and the answers were by the editor himself. A few of 
these taken at random. 

"Can an excluded minister assist in ordaining a preacher?" 
"He cannot." 

"When a brother calls for a letter, has any member a right 
to call for his reason?" "He has, but the church must judge of 
the reasons." 

"If depravity produces sin, are we not by nature only par- 
tially depraved, advancing further in depravity as we advance 
in sin?" "If depravity produces sin, then we are totally de- 
praved, as sure as the tree is known by its fruit." 

"We have some dancing members. What ought the church 
to do?" "Distribute a few dozen copies of B. H. Carroll's 
sermon on Dancing." 

"Should a church furnish amusements?" "Should a church 
dig mud holes for washed swine?" 

"Some of our members have joined the sanctified band. 
What must we do? "Forbid them using the Lord's prayer, lest 
they bring themselves into self-condemnation, as they repeat, 
'forgive us our trespasses/ " 

Communications and Striking Paragraphs. — Every issue of 
the paper for ten years carried historical or doctrinal or exe- 
getical contributions of priceless value from our ablest brethren. 
Editor Buckner invented the head, "News and Views," which 
stood over a column of refined gold. Every library would be 



84 



Life of R. C. Buckner 



richer if it contained the bound volumes of "The Texas Baptist." 
Priceless treasures they are in the Buckner Home Library. 

"The Texas Baptist" made every variety of human experi- 
ence pass before the eye of its readers. If one preacher spun 
a rope and hanged himself, or another wove garments and clothed 
himself with honor, the paper pointed him out. 



CHAPTER XV 

ORIGIN OF BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 

Origin of Buckner Orphans Home. — Dr. Buckner had scarcely 
begun publishing his paper in 1874, when he began thinking 
about the Orphans Home. He thought it all out, and saw it, 
farms, buildings, matrons, swarms of happy children, schools 
and teachers ; with an eye of faith he saw it all. He communed 
with God and with his own spirit many days. Will his dream 
come to pass? 

The times were not propitious. The people were still weep- 
ing for fathers and sons fallen on a hundred battle-fields. Prop- 
erty was gone. The State was thinly populated. The City of 
Dallas was a frontier village, and a few miles further west was 
the home of the wild Indians. The Baptists in Texas were a 
feeble folk, much divided, while every Baptist interest was 
paralyzed for want of support. 

But then words fitly spoken turn to gold. They are like 
apples of gold in pictures of silver. Buckner knew this. He 
appealed to the deacons in every church through many editorials. 
He preached to them in their meeting houses. He visited, talked 
and prayed in their homes. He drew them to him. He pointed 
to the orphan child in cruel hands : "Suppose, Brother Deacon, 
that had been your child and you dead." (Texas Baptist, Dec. 
14, 1876.) He gained over to his enterprise preachers and 
parents. He moved the deacons to call a convention. The call 
was made by Dr. W. H. Trollinger of Whitesboro, at his written 
request. 

Deacons' Convention. — The Deacons' Convention met in 
Paris, July 17, 1877. Deacon Rice Maxey, father of United 

85 



86 Life of R. C. Buckner 

States Senator, S. B. Maxey, presided, and Deacon J. R. Rogers 
of Melissa served as clerk. Many preachers and other brethren 
present were by resolution invited to seats. Deacon J. R. Rogers 
offered a resolution "to establish an Orphans Home in North 
Texas." The preachers and all others were asked to vote. There 
were about ioo Baptists in the room, from many towns and 
counties. The vote was unanimous. 

Immediately, R. C. Buckner was elected "General Superin- 
tendent and Correspondent, to canvass, enlist the sympathy and 
cooperation of the denomination, solicit subscriptions in cash, 
bonds and lands, and conduct the general correspondence." 

R. C. Buckner, B. H. Carroll and J. R. Rogers were appointed 
a committee on "Plan," and recommended that an average of 
one dollar per member be asked of every church within the 
bounds of the General Association, and when $2,000 is in hand, 
the Home be located. This was adopted, and an Executive 
Board appointed with Major E. F. Brown of McKinney as 
chairman. 

"Just to Give This a Start" — The Deacons' Convention was 
on Wednesday. It was followed by the Sunday School Conven- 
tion, and by the meeting of the General Association. R. C. 
Buckner was now 44 years old, in the prime of his young man- 
hood. His vision was clear and pierced to the end of the cen- 
tury and beyond. Already he had gained the hearts of the 
people, but was unwilling for the brethren to leave Paris till a 
start was made. 

On Sunday at one o'clock, he sat down under the shade of 
a great oak not far from the meeting house. It was yet an hour 
till service. Several preachers gathered about him. Then he 
took out a paper "greenback" bill and, laying it on his knee, 
said : "Brethren, just to give this thing a start, here is my dollar." 
"Amen," said B. H. Carroll, and put down his dollar. "Amen," 
said J. W. Connelly, and he followed with several others. One 
brother, S. J. Anderson, stood and looked on with doubt. He 



Origin of Buckner Orphans Home 87 

thought the whole procedure a big joke. But he was finally 
convinced and placed his dollar. Instantly Carroll said : "Thomas, 
because thou hast seen thou hast believed ; blessed are they that 
have not seen, and yet have believed." This contribution by the 
preachers under the oak amounted to $27. 

The reader is doubtless surprised to note how completely 
Dr. Buckner turned the attention of all the people at the Paris 
meetings favorably to his Orphans Home enterprise. Well, he 
had been working at it a good while. But now he employed a 
new scheme that took them by their hands and led them his way. 
Every day he issued a neat little "Daily Texas Baptist Extra" 
and distributed it gratuitously among all the people. This little 
daily sparkled with the golden grains of thought as they were 
dropped by the brethren in public utterances and in social con- 
versation. But it also especially glowed with words and senti- 
ments favorable to the Home, and with suggestive gems from 
the Holy Book. 

Opposition? — At the Paris meetings there was no opposition 
to establishing the Orphans Home. But after a little while 
some had fears. Dr. B. F. Riley, in his "History of Texas 
Baptists," tells it thus: "Friends importuned him (Dr. Buckner) 
to desist from an undertaking so hazardous, among whom was 
a United States Senator, all of whom were solicitous about an 
enterprise which carried with it predictions of failure, because 
violative of all principles of business. But the founder had 
counted the cost, the conception of the enterprise was in his 
great heart, and, staying himself on God, he persisted. It was 
soon evident that the proposed orphanage was not to be without 
a home, for an offer came from Tarrant County, of a bonus of 
i,2C0 acres of land, another from another quarter of 300 acres, 
while an offer of $1,000 cash came from Eastern Texas." 

If there were some discouragements, there were encourage- 
ments, many. From every direction came money and pledges. 
Dr. W. H. Trollinger of Whitesboro pledged one-seventh of the 



88 Life of R. C. Buckner 

earnings from his professional services. Deacon F. H. Oglevie 
of Melissa gave the proceeds of one acre of wheat, $15.65. 
Money coming every week was a mighty encouragement. Then 
came also many approving messages. We give a word from 
two or three. "The Orphans Home enterprise is a part of our 
holy religion." — W. M. Gaugh, Pastor, Ft. Worth. "Waco As- 
sociation will adopt plan for raising funds for the Orphans 
Home." — Cortez Stubblefield, Secretary of Board, Waco Asso- 
ciation. "I am deeply interested in the enthusiasm you have 
awakened for a Texas Baptist Orphans Home." — R. C. Burleson, 
President of Waco University. "You must carry out the 
Orphans Home idea." — W. D. Powell, Mineola. 

There was steady advancement. Money kept coming and 
friends seemed to be multiplying. 

The Home Opened. — During the year 1879 there was a grow- 
ing demand for the Home to be opened. Something more than 
$1,000 was in the treasury, and part of it had been there for 
two years. Orphan children were knocking for admission, but 
the board had voted not to open till $2,000 should be on hand. 

Then it was that Dr. Buckner executed his personal note for 
$800. This made good the $2,000 and was approved by his 
board. He at once rented a three-room cottage with two acres 
of land on what is now the northeast corner of Junius street 
and Haskell avenue, Dallas. Here the Home was opened, De- 
cember 2, 1879, with only three children. Two of them were 
John Cruse and Alice Cruse from McKinney and the third was 
John Jones from Ellis County. All these grew up to be honor- 
able and useful citizens. 

The first superintendent and matron were Deacon L. H. 
Tillman and his wife from Corsicana. They continued to the 
end of the year 1880. They were succeeded by T. J. Reese and 
wife, Mrs. S. A. Reese. This lady was very capable, having had 
experience as an infant class teacher in both Chicago and New 
Orleans. Likewise, also, was her husband a man of strength 



Origin of Buckner Orphans Home 89 

and worth. The children were grateful and happy. "God gave 
us this Home" — that is what a little orphan boy was heard to 
say while the children were still in their rented home in Dallas. 

Naming Buckner Orphans Home. — A meeting of the Execu- 
tive Board was held in McKinney, Saturday, December 22, 1879. 
The day was cold. The brethren sat about the stove in the new 
meeting-house, not yet completed, and discussed the Orphans 
Home enterprise with the keenest interest. Already the Home 
was in operation and was taking care of three children. There 
was no doubt in their minds as to what was the Lord's will. 
Solemn prayer was offered. 

Then arose Major E. F. Brown, deacon of McKinney church, 
and moved that the Home be named "Buckner Orphans Home," 
that R. C. Buckner and James R. Rogers be appointed to receive 
bids looking to locating the Home, and that R. C. Buckner be 
appointed General Manager. This was unanimously adopted. 
Deacon Brown was a lawyer of ability and was a partner of 
Governor Throckmorton. 

The First Charter. — The original charter of Buckner Orphans 
Home was written by Major E. F. Brown. It was approved by 
Senator S. B. Maxey, Judge John L. Henry and by the Secretary 
of the State, at Austin, and then placed upon record. The new 
charter was written by R. C. Buckner himself. 

By the first charter the Home was put on the broad platform 
of receiving and caring for any and all dependent white orphan 
children, without partiality and without regard to section or sec- 
tarian bounds. It has always continued on that platform. It 
especially provided that no child shall be excluded on account of 
the religious views of his or her parents. In the By-Laws it was 
further provided: "Under some circumstances a child not lit- 
erally an orphan might be received. For instance, the father 
may have long since abandoned and neglected the mother and 
she may be a lunatic or an invalid, and the child left penniless 
to the cold charities of the world." 



90 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Before being placed on record, this charter was adopted by 
the Board at a meeting in McKinney, April 10, 1879. Dr. Buck- 
ner was supply pastor of McKinney Baptist Church in those 
days. 

Dr. Buckner had been supply pastor at McKinney, resigning 
in August, 1877, that he might give himself more fully to his 
work as superintendent of missions and of raising funds for the 
Orphans' Home. The church at McKinney loved him dearly, 
and of them he said : "We never parted from better brethren." 
It was their joy to encourage him in his Orphans Home enterprise. 
More than a third of a century afterwards Dr. E. E. King, pastor 
of the church in its golden days, said : "We praise the Lord that 
the First Baptist Church of McKinney encouraged its retiring 
pastor, and had some little part in opening the sheltering home 
for the homeless.' , 

Site Purchased. — On September 25, 1880, the general man- 
ager of the Orphans Home, R. C. Buckner, took the Texas and 
Pacific train for Scyene Switch, ten miles east of Dallas. From 
this point he walked three miles to the home of Elder J. T. Pin- 
son with the purpose of buying from him the ground on which 
to erect the Home buildings. He spent the evening pleasantly 
with Brother Pinson. Then just as he was leaving he stated 
his wish to buy the block of land containing 44 acres, seven miles 
east of Dallas. "What is your price?" "Seventeen dollars per 
acre." "I will take it." 

He communicated with the members of his Board and asked 
them to meet him on the ground, September 27. The following 
met : R. C. Buckner, E. F. Brown, J. R. Rogers, J. M. Graves, 
Sam Smith, L. H. Tillman. These brethren approved the trans- 
action, the money was paid and the deed made. The land had 
on it a cedar log house and a cotton crop. There was a family 
in the house, but the brethren went in and held dedicatory serv- 
ices. A song was sung, then Dr. Buckner read the Scriptures 
and offered prayer. 



Origin of Buckner Orphans Home 91 

The site chosen is on a broad fertile prairie, and on the high- 
est ridge in Dallas County. It overlooks the city, and the health 
of the children from the first and through all the years has been 
marvelous. 

Historic Log House. — The house in which the home was 
dedicated first stood on the southeast corner of the courthouse 
square, Dallas. It was built of cedar logs in 1841 by John 
Neely Bryan. But there was no Dallas then. Dallas County 
was a part of Nacogdoches County, and this log house was the 
only building within 100 miles of where the city now stands. 
It served as the first postofiice building and the first courthouse 
in Dallas. As the great city built up, the humble cedar log house 
began moving out. It first moved two miles east to Buzzard 
Springs (now in the city). Then it moved still farther east to 
the top of White Rock hill, where, with some other buildings, 
it was called "Shake Rag Town." From there later on it fled 
to the site purchased for Buckner Orphans Home, where it still 
stands, honored as the "Dedication Cottage" of the home. From 
the great bricks in Dallas it fled. But now aged, silent and 
alone it stands between the imposing Boys' building and the 
large classic chapel. It is content, the plaything of orphan chil- 
dren, and an object of the deepest interest to thousands of 
visitors. 



CHAPTER XVI 



AMONG THE BRETHREN 



Among the Brethren. — Unfold "The Texas Baptist," any 
issue from January, 1874, to June, 1883, and you will likely 
catch the headline, "Among the Brethren." We believe the 
editor originated this head as he did "News and Views," and 
others. 

"Among the Brethren" he did some other things beside edit 
the paper and establish the Orphans' Home. Eat chicken? Prob- 
ably. Some of his friends were so thoughtless as to say, "Two 
things made him supremely happy — chicken and money for the 
Orphans Home." 

Meeting at Fairfield. — A good while ago was that meeting 
in Fairfield. The General Association had been in session there, 
and a renowned Tennessee Doctor of Divinity, Elder J. R. 
Graves, had been there and preached a great sermon. (It was 
considered an honor to any town to have a visit and sermon by 
Graves.) At the conclusion of this deliverance, R. C. Buckner 
shook hands with the preacher and complimented him on the 
gentle spirit of a sermon coming from one who bore the reputa- 
tion of being a fighting preacher. Graves responded, "I am 
gentle, Brother Buckner, I am gentle." 

But quickly the Association was gone, Graves was gone, and 
Pastor W. H. Parks retained Buckner for a meeting. The result 
was good, the church strengthened and forty-five members were 
added. 

After a few annual suns, an unfortunate controversy was on 
in Dallas and was waxing warm. The brethren were assembled 
and expressing themselves. Then rose up a fine young man with 

92 



Among the Brethren 93 

sense and religion, Z. J. Anderson, and set forth his views. An 
elderly preacher replied severely: "Z. J. Anderson is a young 
man. He will be wiser when he has heard from his more expe- 
rienced brethren." Anderson responded: "You may call me 
young, but I am among the saved, am a sound Baptist and have 
a right to be heard. I was saved at Fairfield in 187 1 under the 
preaching of God's own approved minister, R. C. Buckner." 
Dr. Buckner held other great meetings at Ennis, Dallas, Meridian, 
Denison, Sherman, Bonham, Palo Pinto, and many other points. 

Awaking Major Penn. — Who in Texas, or in the South, has 
not heard of Major W. E. Penn? The Texas Baptist historian, 
B. F. Riley, thus refers to him : "He gave up his profession as 
an attorney, devoted himself to evangelistic work, and became 
famous throughout the States of the South. For many years he 
was a conspicuous revivalist and his services were sought far 
and wide." (Hist, page 231.) 

In 1873, Dr. Buckner held a notable meeting in Jefferson, 
Texas, owned and blessed of God and fruitful of results. He 
was physically below par. He had just gone through a good 
meeting at Shreveport, Louisiana, during which he had chills. 
He missed no service for two weeks, nor did he miss a chill. 
His landlady threatened to tie him to a bedstead to keep him out 
of the pulpit, but she did not carry her threat into effect. The 
meeting did good, uplifting the pastor and church. 

But in the condition above described, weak because of chills, 
and with thick tongue, he came to Jefferson and began the meet- 
ing. C. S. McCloud was pastor. Deacon W. E. Penn was Sun- 
day School Superintendent and a member of the Jefferson bar. 
Deacon Penn was quite well known, was president of the Texas 
Baptist Sunday School and Colportage Convention in 1873 and 
1874. In 1873, he made a great speech before the Southern 
Baptist Convention at Mobile, Alabama, inviting that body to 
meet in his home city the next year, and he brought the conven- 
tion to Jefferson, its first time in Texas. 



94 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Jefferson was a town of considerable importance with steam- 
boat landing and wharf, and enjoying a lucrative trade from the 
interior. Many families of wealth and refinement had their 
homes in the city. The Baptist people had just completed their 
new brick meeting-house. 

Interest in the meeting grew from the first, and large crowds 
attended day and night. Many were saved. Among the saved 
was a daughter of W. H. Harrison, who had been a large planter 
on Red River, but at this time was in business in Jefferson. 
Buckner Orphans Home is now in possession of a very valuable 
piano given by Mr. Harrison's daughter-in-law. 

Deacon Penn became an active worker in the meeting. It 
was plain to Buckner that God had endowed him with more than 
ordinary soul-winning powers. And Dr. Buckner was glad to 
encourage him. Penn and Buckner worked together in this 
meeting as Spirit-appointed yokefellows. Penn grew bold and 
made suggestions: "Brother Buckner, you should not preach 
much tonight, only an exhortation. The meeting is going, and 
the thing to do now is to work for souls." Buckner took his 
text, "My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed." At the close 
of the discourse Penn said : "I told you not to preach much, and 
behold you have given us a sermon of logic and power." 

The meeting closed and many were baptized. But Major 
Penn was a new man, a mighty man of faith with a passion for 
souls. And the Spirit of the Lord was upon him. Later he 
held a great meeting in Dallas, at the close of which Dr. Buckner 
had the unusual pleasure of baptizing at the same hour his four 
daughters. Dr. Buckner has baptized and performed the mar- 
riage ceremony for all six of his children. 

The Church at McKinney. — In those days of his tireless 
activity, while editing his paper and "among the brethren," R. C. 
Buckner did a work of priceless value, holding meetings, con- 
stituting churches and strengthening foundations. 

As an illustration of his strengthening work, we instance his 



Among the Brethren 95 

labors at McKinney. That church had a feeble beginning, Au- 
gust, 1872. But like a weakly infant, no one could tell whether 
it would live or die. In the summer of 1873, Dr. Buckner, on 
invitation, visited the church and held a meeting. The Baptists 
had no house and the meeting was held in the Cumberland Pres- 
byterian house. The Lord showered blessings and several per- 
sons were saved. Among the saved was the wife of a young 
Baptist preacher named T. J. Simms, from Mississippi. Simms 
was a fine young man, and the brethren felt that he might make 
them a good pastor. 

The new converts were baptized in East Fork, some distance 
from the town, among them Simms' wife. It was the first time 
the ordinance had been administered at McKinney, and a large 
company assembled to see it. Before going into the water, 
Preacher Buckner delivered an address on "Baptism" that the 
present pastor (1914), E. E. King, says was remembered by the 
people forty years afterward. The country was new and no 
less than nine rattlesnakes were killed there on the banks of East 
Fork during the baptismal service. 

The church was financially weak and was greatly in need of 
a house of worship. R. C. Buckner accepted the care of the 
church as supply pastor, without salary, till the brethren could 
build and grow stronger, with the distinct protestation that as 
soon as the house was finished and the church able to pay for 
pastoral service, he would vacate in favor of Brother Simms. 

The house was finished January, 1877. On March 4, Dr. 
Buckner organized the Sunday School, which still lives. The 
music was indifferent, and he suggested the purchase of an 
organ. There was opposition, but he procured the organ and 
placed it in the meeting-house, "just on trial a while." Soon 
the opposition favored buying it. 

Dr. R. C. Burleson was invited to preach the dedicatory 
sermon. He came, preached, and announced that $500, one-third 
the cost of the house, must be raised. As he proceeded to take 



96 Life of R. C. Buckner 

the collection, a heavy shower of rain poured down. Said Dr. 
Burleson: "The Lord has shut us in till we get the money." 
They soon had it, the rain ceased, and the people went home 
rejoicing. 

In April, 1877, Dr. Buckner held a meeting and the church 
was greatly strengthened. By August it was on the high road 
to prosperity, at which time Buckner resigned and T. J. Simms 
became pastor. During Dr. Buckner's incumbency a well-to-do 
citizen of McKinney had cast a large bell with the name "R. C. 
Buckner, Pastor," cast in it, and presented the same to the 
church. 

Indian Missions. — For some years Editor Buckner carried 
an Indian Department in his paper, giving fresh, up-to-date news 
about missionary progress among the Indians. By means of 
appeals through his paper and direct personal appeals "among 
the brethren," he was able to keep Elder Washington Kanard at 
work in the Creek Nation and Elder John Mcintosh at work 
among the wild tribes west of the civilized tribes and in North- 
west Texas. He did not collect all the salaries of these two 
missionaries, but he did collect the bulk of it. His labor was 
one of love. Once in the paper he referred to it as "our unpaid 
agency." The following paragraph was kept in type and ap- 
peared ever and anon in the paper: 

"The editor of this paper, by appointment of the Indian 
brethren, acts as agent in Texas, receiving and forwarding money 
and supplies direct to the Board of the Muskogee and Choctaw 
and Chickasaw Associations, or to the missionaries themselves, 
as the contributors direct. This is done without salary or com- 
mission, and in harmony with the Home Mission Board of the 
Southern Baptist Convention." 

A resolution of thanks for this service was voted to Dr. 
Buckner by the Muskogee Association. At the time of its adop- 
tion, kind remarks were made referring to his services, and 
mention was made that "The Texas Baptist" was the only paper 



Among the Brethren 97 

in the United States that contained a special department for 
Indian Missions. This work he continued till he influenced the 
General Association of Texas to adopt Indian Missions as a 
regular department of its work. 

Sunday School Work. — From the beginning of the General 
Association to consolidation, Dr. Buckner pressed Sunday School 
work over North Texas. He kept it before the people in his 
paper and talked it "among the brethren." When the Sunday 
School Convention of the General Association was organized at 
Longview in 1875, he was chosen its first president, and was 
re-elected at Waco the following year. With something over 
$1,000 in sight at Waco, Buckner had the joy of seeing a Sunday 
School evangelist in the person of Elder J. T. S. Park, of Mexia, 
put into the field for full time. For this he had been laboring 
and praying. But the work grew and was blessed of God till 
at the end of ten years, July, 1885, there were six of the ablest 
preachers in Texas traveling over the territory of the General 
Association as Sunday School evangelists. There were Elders 
Kit Williams, H. E. Calehan, V. G. Cunningham, R. C. Pender, 
J. L. Mayes, and H. J. E. Williams. Then at Ennis, July 23, 
1885, Dr. Buckner made the motion consolidating this live Sun- 
day School Convention with the "Texas Baptist Sunday School 
and Colportage Convention." At the time of the consolidation 
this Convention in the bounds of the General Association was 
doing as great a volume of work as the Sunday School and Col- 
portage Convention, although the latter body had been in exis- 
tence twenty-one years. 

Aged Ministers' Relief. — In March, 1881, it became known 
to Dr. Buckner that Elder N. T. Byars, the veteran missionary 
who had baptized his thousands, who had constituted sixty 
churches, who had traveled the frontiers of Texas as a missionary 
for more than forty years, was sick and without money. He 
was urged by his physician to go to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, 
as the last hope. "The Texas Baptist" laid his case on the 



98 Life of R. C. Buckner 

hearts of its readers and appealed to them for help. The fact 
of his being without money, Dr. Buckner declared to be "an 
honor to him rather than a reproach." He made compelling 
appeals to the deacons who were helping the Orphans Home to 
provide for the aged ministers also. 

There had been other worthy cases earlier than that of Elder 
Byars, notably that of Elder James Truss, who spent fifty years 
in the ministry and was faithful to the end. This brother died 
in 1883, but suffered great poverty in his old days. He was 
relieved through the efforts of R. C. Buckner. 

Through Elder Buckner's calls, help came to Elder Byars, 
some of it in anonymous letters. Nearly all of it passed through 
Dr. Buckner's hands. The appeals sent out through "The Texas 
Baptist" were irresistible. Note the following: 

"Like old horses, these veterans are left, as it were, to graze 
by the roadside, where they look across the fence and see many 
a fruitful field, opened and cultivated by their labor, but now 
closed against them." "Shall the State show more honor to its 
veterans than the church to hers? Shall we not make provision 
for them? Let the deacons take this matter up." 

The deacons heard. Note this from Major E. F. Brown, of 
McKinney : "Let me urge to make provision for our aged min- 
isters. None more deserving than they. They have fed us on 
the gospel in the years gone by and now we should not withhold 
from them our temporal things." ("Texas Baptist," June 
30, 1881.) 

On July 26, 1881, the Deacons' Convention assembled in 
Waco, when Deacon Overall, of Bethany Church, near Ennis, 
offered the following resolution, which was unanimously adopted : 

"Whereas, There appear to be old and indigent ministers 
within the bounds of the General Association; therefore, 

"Resolved, That this convention appoint a committee of five 
to inaugurate and perfect plans and means for their support." 

Then the convention immediately, through its chairman, 



Among the Brethren 



99 



appointed the following Board, known as the "Indigent Min- 
isters' Board": W. R. Kellum, S. F. Sparks, S. B. Humphries, 
W. P. Martin, B. J. Kendrick. These men were leading deacons 
living at and near Waco. It would have been hard to find an 
abler Board in the State. The First Baptist Church of Waco 
was one of the great churches constituted by Elder N. T. Byars, 
and it was fitting that the first Board in the State for aged min- 
isters' relief should be located in Waco. This was in 1881, and 
was four years before a similar Board was appointed in the Bap- 
tist State Convention. It was the result of Dr. Buckner's ap- 
peals. Elder N. T. Byars was still living, and received help from 
this Board every year till consolidation five years afterwards. 




CHAPTER XVII 

BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME — PROGRESS 

The Orphans Home was conducted in the rented cottage in 
Dallas during 1880 and the earlier months of 1881. Deacon 
L. H. Tillman and wife were superintendent and matron the 
first year. Their salaries were $300 each. 

On Saturday, February 12, 1881, the Orphans Home Board 
met in the law office of Major E. F. Brown and Ex-Governor 
J. W. Throckmorton, in McKinney, and resolved to build on 
the Home ground in the country. A two-story frame house was 
agreed on, with nine rooms and hall and with porch below and 
above, to be completed by May 1. Besides the members of 
the Board, the General Manager was present, also George W. 
Baines, jr., pastor of McKinney Church, and others. Work 
was begun immediately and hurried. The house was roofed 
and far enough advanced by April 5 to admit the orphan family 
moving into it. There were six children at the time of moving. 

The Home Sunday School was organized by R. C. Buckner, 
June 19, 1881, with Deacon L. H. Tillman as superintendent. 
Deacon Tillman was quite well known, having been at one time 
moderator of Richland Association and at another vice-president 
of the Deacons' Convention. He was prominent in the denomi- 
national councils, was placed on important committees. 

In July, 1 88 1, more children were received into the Home. 
Good crops were growing. From this time forward the insti- 
tution grew rapidly. 

More Land. — Forty- four acres of land was not enough. Dr. 
Buckner's plans included a bigger home than that. Others felt 
the same way about it. So the children were scarcely domiciled 

100 



Buckner Orphans Home — Progress 101 

in their new home before the orphans' father began looking about 
for more land. He found it, eighty-three acres, joining the first 
forty-four acres on the south and east. It was an exceptionally 
fine tract. He immediately bought it and paid for it out of his 
own private funds. When this was reported to the Deacons' 
Convention, assembled in Waco, July 22, 188 1, every man was 
pleased, and that body passed the following resolution : 

"Resolved, That the thanks of this body are hereby tendered 
Brother R. C. Buckner for the steps he has taken to procure for 
Buckner Orphans Home a valuable tract of land of eighty-three 
acres," etc. A call was made for funds to reimburse Dr. Buck- 
ner, and many friends sent money. In about five months the 
money was all in hand and Dr. Buckner reimbursed. Also a tract 
of nineteen acres of timber was purchased and became a part 
of the Home assets. 

Is the reader curious to know how General Manager Buckner 
got money to pay for that eighty-three acres ? He sold his home, 
receiving some cash and taking as part pay a block of land in the 
City of Dallas. He then mortgaged the block and borrowed 
$1,500. With this and the cash already received for his home 
he paid for the eighty-three acres. That eighty-three acres is 
now (1914) worth $200 per acre, indispensable to the Home and 
inalienable. 

"God Bless the People."— Under this head, "God Bless the 
People," we read in "The Texas Baptist," January 12, 1882, of 
abundant supplies sent to the orphans. So much so that Gen- 
eral Manager R. C. Buckner calls a halt : "Enough of dry goods 
for both winter and summer wear, for both boys and girls, is on 
hand, and of shoes there is an abundant supply for at least twelve 
months. Of sugar, coffee, tea, and dried fruit there is an 
abundance for the present. No more dry goods or clothing 
need be sent this year, and but little else except meat and flour." 

Great need was felt for a school and chapel building, and 
the same was completed June 1, 1883. Also there was need 



102 Life of R. C. Buckner 

for more room, and at the meeting of the Deacons' Convention 
at Sulphur Springs, July, 1882, about $500 was subscribed. 
More room was added immediately and a new barn built. 

The location of the Orphans Home Board was changed about 
this time from McKinney to Dallas, with John Overall as Chair- 
man and James Rogers as Secretary. The number of members 
of the Board was reduced from thirteen to nine. 

Big Picnic. — In July, 1882, Pleasant View Baptist Church, 
near Buckner Orphans Home, gave a big reception and a sump- 
tuous dinner to that Institution, Buckner Orphans Home. All 
the surrounding country was invited. A large multitude at- 
tended. Buckner Orphans Home, with its twenty- four children, 
with Superintendent T. J. Reese and Matron Sarah A. Reese, 
and with "Father Buckner," were there en masse. Elder J. F. 
Pinson delivered an inspiring address of welcome, which was 
said by some of his friends to be the master speech of his life. 
R. C. Buckner was called on for a speech. He was ready, and 
told his neighbors of the good work of caring for the orphan 
children. A spontaneous collection followed, in cash nearly 
$40, and in supplies more than $100 worth. The cash could be 
used all right in building work then going on. But what about 
the supplies? General Manager Buckner told them he had a 
plenty for the present, but they pressed him to take it. He soon 
found a use for it, as more children kept coming. 

H. F. Buckner Dead. — On Sunday, December 2, 1882, the 
brightest light in the Creek Indian Nation sank out of sight. 
The soul of H. F. Buckner departed to be with Jesus. A sad 
day, this, to R. C. Buckner. His own report of his brother's 
death is here condensed from an editorial in "The Texas 
Baptist" : 

"A telegram was sent to Dallas, but absence from home and 
miles from the telegraph office prevented us receiving the sum- 
mons to the bedside of our only living brother. And our vener- 
able father was too feeble to go. His work cannot be rehearsed 



Buckner Orphans Home — Progress 103 

here. When he was gone, a Pedobaptist preacher (white) said : 
'The light of the Creek Nation has gone out/ 

"The Indians said : 'No one can preach his funeral ; it would 
be like preaching our father's funeral.' 

"Said a full-blood Indian : 'Our father loved us. He taught 
his children well. He set us a good example, but he is gone 
and we must do the best we can/ 

"Many years ago we parted from our brother, as he was 
returning to the Indians, after a visit to us in Kentucky. In 
parting, we sang together a hymn to the chorus: 

" 'I am bound to live in the service of my Lord, 
I am bound to die in His army/ 

"It was sad but joyful. We have ever since regarded him 
as God's chosen servant, sent especially as an Indian Missionary. 
Our last meeting was two years ago on a depot platform, each 
going to different points. 

"A brother will be allowed to say of one so long and well 
known as a public servant, that a nobler, truer, more prayerful 
and self-sacrificing man perhaps never lived. He knew his time 
was drawing nigh. He longed to see the Levering Manual 
Labor School in operation with Elder A. J. Trenchard at its 
head, and to see Elder Wesley Smith, a Creek Indian, appointed 
missionary to the wild tribes. He saw the Levering School doing 
blessed work. The last long tour he made was a visit to the 
wild tribes, during which he slept on the cold damp ground at 
nights. Then the last mail opened by himself contained the 
news of the appointment of Elder Wesley Smith to the wild 
tribes by the Home Mission Board of the Southern Baptist 
Convention." 

We add: Elder Wesley Smith made a speech before the 
Southern Baptist Convention at Waco the following May, 1883, 
that moved the whole convention. Among other things, he said : 

"In the goodness of your hearts you sent us H. F. Buckner, 



104 Life of R. C. Buckner 

who has but recently fallen, to teach us the light. His work 
was blessed till there were thirty ministers of the gospel among 
my people. Through the influence of that one brother, our 
membership has grown till it is now something like 2,000, but 
Buckner is gone. You have appointed me to the wild tribes, 
and although they are almost as wild to me as to you, yet I go, 
and trust through your prayers and the blessings of God I may 
be the humble instrument in doing them good." The speech of 
Wesley Smith was published in full in "The Texas Baptist." 

Why was Buckner away from home when the message came 
announcing the serious illness of his brother? He was superin- 
tendent of misions, giving his time and paying his own traveling 
expenses. Shortly after this he resigned on account of injuries 
sustained by his father being struck by a moving train. He said : 
"Our presence at home is an absolute necessity." During the last 
quarter of his work as superintendent of missions he collected 
$1,204.36, besides $500 for Buckner Orphans Home. This was 
considered good. 

Peeps Into the Home, 1883. — This is the way the Home 
looked to Elder A. J. Holt, May, 1883 : "We were surrounded 
by swarms of little folks, who did not seem to be orphans, but 
a merry family of brothers and sisters. There was a thirteen- 
year-old girl soothing her fretful little 'brother' of four. Here 
were two sweet little girls, standing arm in arm, waiting to be 
caressed by their benefactor. They were 'sisters,' though of 
different parentage. There was no fussing, crying, disputing or 
pouting. Two or three fleet-footed ones sped away to tell 'Mama 
Reese* that company had come. She came in with her little 
ones circling about her. Her face was motherly, her whole 
appearance was motherly, her heart was motherly." 

The following is from "The Good Samaritan": "A small 
girl came to Buckner Orphans Home with morals badly impaired 
and language shocking. Mrs. S. A. Reese was matron. The 
child was dealt with kindly and firmly. One night when Father 



Buckner Orphans Home — Progress 105 

Buckner had offered prayer and it was now time to send the 
children to bed, this little girl threw her arms about her matron's 
neck, her big brown eyes streaming with tears, and exclaimed: 
'O Mamma Reese, if I had not come into this home, what would 
have become of my soul? I would not have known what it was 
to love Jesus and my soul would have been lost/ " 

Another scene, this time concerning a small boy, we quote 
from "The Good Samaritan": "This boy was a homeless boot- 
black and newsboy picked up on the streets of Dallas, and dis- 
gustingly profane. He had to be watched. At one time he set 
fire to the building. He knew nothing of prayer or Jesus. When 
Brother Reese led in prayer, he would sometimes mock and some- 
times at close say, 'Amen, Brother Ben.' After some weeks of 
teaching and discipline, his matron took him into the nursery and 
asked, 'Do you know that praying is talking to Jesus?' 'Jesus! 
Who is He?' She replied: 'O my dear child, have you never 
heard of Jesus or God?' 'Yes, I have heard about God, but 
don't know about Jesus/ She talked to him a good while about 
Jesus, His love, His death, His resurrection, and His readiness 
to save all who trust Him. The boy was intelligent and soon 
began crying. His heart was touched. He was a better boy 
after that. Gradually his bad habits were cured. He was at 
length completely changed/' 

The foregoing were extreme cases. The Home does not 
receive a large number of that character. 

"The Good Samaritan" referred to was a monthly publica- 
tion issued by Dr. Buckner, and was continued several years. 
Its motto was, "Good Will, Good Words, Good Works." In its 
salutatory was announced: "Especially will it advocate good 
will, good words, and good works in the interest of orphan chil- 
dren, the dependent poor, the distressed, the incarcerated and 
the neglected." Volume I, Number I, appeared in September, 1883. 

"Home" Baptist Church Constituted. — As noted elsewhere, 
the Home Chapel and School Building was completed June 1, 



106 Life of R. C. Buckner 

1883. In this chapel the Home Baptist Church was organized, 
July 15, 1883. Dr. Buckner preached from the text, "And they 
continued steadfastly in fellowship," using the following sermon 
notes : 

"Definition of Fellowship. It is from 'fellow/ an adherent, 
one who follows, a companion, an associate. Fellowship means 
'mutual association on equal friendly terms/ 

"I. The Basis of Christian Fellowship. The evidences of 
faith and love for Christ, the Spirit of Christ, His image. 

"II. The Basis of Church Fellowship. This embraces more. 
It embraces soundness in the faith, 'the apostles' doctrine,' 'teach- 
ing them to observe all things,' etc. This is essential to church 
organization. 

"How is Church Fellowship ascertained? Not by dictation, 
but by mutual understanding and voluntary agreement, by adopt- 
ing a confession of faith. This secures permanency. 'They 
continued steadfastly.' " 

While organizing the church the following order of business 
was observed : 

1. State the object of the meeting. 

2. Invite to the front seats persons having church letters, 
and those without letters who will obtain same. 

3. Elect moderator and clerk. 

4. Read articles of faith and church covenant. 

5. Resolution of recognition. 

6. Open doors of church. 

7. Choose name. 

8. Elect officers. 

9. Elect messengers to bear petitionary letter to association. 

10. Adjourn to dinner and baptize. 

R. C. Buckner was chosen pastor and five of the orphan chil- 
dren were baptized. 

On September 1, the church was received into cooperation 
with the Elm Fork Baptist Association. 



Buckner Orphans Home — Progress 107 

Elm Fork and Dallas-Collin Make Peace. — For some years 
prior to 188.3 there had been friction and discord between Elm 
Fork and Dallas-Collin Associations. Both occupied the same 
territory. 

Peace and union were brought about between these two bodies 
through the efforts of R. C. Buckner. He prepared and read a 
paper before Elm Fork looking to good fellowship and union. 
This was September 2, 1883, when Elm Fork was in session at 
Stewart's Creek, in Denton County. The paper set forth: 

1. That in former times there had been brotherly corre- 
spondence between many of the churches of the two bodies. 

2. That Elm Fork Association looked upon the churches of 
Dollas-Collin as sound in the faith and otherwise worthy. 

3. That nothing was needed in order to union, except for 
messengers from the churches of Dallas-Collin to appear with 
letters at the next meeting of Elm Fork, and they would be 
seated as a part of Elm Fork Association. 

This paper was unanimously adopted, and a committee ap- 
pointed to convey it to Dallas-Collin, which was in session in 
Dallas. Soon the following telegram was received from Dallas- 
Collin : 

"To G. W. Good, Moderator: Your communication and 
messengers received. Will meet with you next year. — J. C. 
Bumpas, Moderator." 

When this message was received by the Elm Fork brethren 
there was rejoicing. A hymn was sung, and a prayer of thanks- 
giving offered "in view of this happy termination of discord," 
as they expressed it. 



CHAPTER XVIII 



LEADERSHIP 



Leadership. — The world moves only as led. Leadership is 
opportunity, but involves the gravest responsibility. Many lead- 
ers are wreckers. Much of the path of history is a path through 
the centuries strewn with wreck and ruin, the result of wrong 
leadership. Even in the religious world there be blind leaders of 
the blind. We doubt if wise and safe leaders ever appeared 
among Baptists save as God raised them up. We believe R. C. 
Buckner was called of God to build Buckner Orphans Home. 
But his more than fifty years of growing leadership among his 
brethren in Texas was no less the appointment of God. Texas 
Baptists have been blessed with many capable leaders. Among 
them the eye of the reader has already seen R. C. Buckner. But 
we have come to a time in his life when his star of leadership 
ascended to meridian heights. It has remained there, growing 
in strength and sending forth its light into wider and yet wider 
zones. 

President of General Association. — When the General Asso- 
ciation met in Ennis, July, 1880, R. C. Buckner was chosen 
President. This was meant both as a recognition of his ability 
and a vindication of his uprightness in character. 

The good man without his enemies never lived. Dr. Buckner 
had them. Just a few months before he was made President of 
the General Association at Ennis, there were some who tried to 
cast stumbling blocks in his way and seriously and forever cripple 
his growing influence. 

Sweeping Vindication. — The attempt to cripple Dr. Buckner 
was a grave matter and threatened wreck and ruin to all the 

108 



Leadership 109 

great work of the Baptist General Association. The attempt 
touched to the quick the entire Baptist denomination of North 
Texas. Dr. Buckner was corresponding secretary and financial 
agent of the Baptist General Association. He was President 
of the Sunday School Convention, and he was founder and 
General Manager of the Buckner Orphans Home. These were 
among the greatest interests of North Texas Baptists — interests 
of 75,000 of the Lord's people. 

What was to be done? President R. C. Burleson called an 
extra session of the General Association to meet in Dallas, Feb- 
ruary 24, 1880, "not to sit in any sense as an ecclesiastical body," 
as he expressed it in his opening address, but to inquire "are 
these brethren in good standing with their own church?" 

The brethren referred to were R. C. Buckner and certain 
members of the Mission Board, viz., Thomas A. Webb., J. L. 
Downs, W. H. Prather, Dr. D. King, and W. H. Thacker, all 
of Dallas. 

The General Association could decide who could be its own 
members, who could be its officers and who could be on its own 
boards. All these must be in good standing in regular Baptist 
churches. Further than to decide the status of its own members, 
officers and members of its boards it could not go. 

There were two parties, each claiming to be the First Baptist 
Church of Dallas. R. C. Buckner and the members of the 
Mission Board hereinbefore named belonged, all of them, to one 
of these parties. 

The division to which R. C. Buckner and the members of the 
Mission Board adhered designated him, W. H. Thacker and A. F. 
Beddoe as messengers from the First Baptist Church of Dallas 
to this called session of the General Association, then assembled 
in the Dallas Baptist meeting-house. 

The application of these brethren to be seated as messengers 
from the First Baptist Church was referred to a committee con- 
sisting of W. G. Calloway, B. H. Carroll, William D. Lair, 



110 Life of R. C. Buckner 

W. H. Trollinger, L. H. Tillman, J. W. Brice, J. L. Humphries, 
John Sparkman, W. H. Parks, and W. J. Brown. 

The report of the committee was a clear statement of imper- 
ishable principles of such worth as should place that document 
beside the greatest productions of any age. The report concludes : 

"These principles, and others equally as important, have been 
applied to the evidence furnished by both parties in their pub- 
lished authoritative statements, and to the church covenant bind- 
ing the parties, and to their official records on the church book. 
Guided by these principles, thus applied to all the evidence as 
thus set forth, we do unanimously recommend that the applicants 
for admission in this body, to wit, Elder R. C. Buckner, W. H. 
Thacker, and A. F. Beddoe, be now recognized as lawful members 
of this body. 

"And we further recommend the Mission Board, as it now 
stands, be confirmed and all the churches and associations be 
urged to cooperate with said Board as heretofore. 

"And do further recommend that Elder R. C. Buckner be 
continued as General Superintendent of Missions and as Cor- 
responding Secretary of this body. 

"And in the exercise of these official duties that we do 
commend him to the fraternal regard and cooperation of all our 
brethren, assuring them that from a patient examination of the 
facts in the case our confidence in him is unimpaired." 

When the report was read a profound impression was made. 
On whom? Said Dr. R. C. Burleson: "This immense assem- 
blage of the oldest, wisest, and most influential men of our Bap- 
tist Israel in Texas." Said Dr. B. H. Carroll : "More messengers 
(and these from 'more associations and more churches') than 
ever assembled before on Texas soil." 

Plenty of time was taken. There had been placed in the 
hands of the Association printed matter from each division of the 
church. Each party had its say in the printed documents scat- 
tered everywhere through the building and among the brethren. 



Leadership 111 

All were intensely interested and all read the documents presented 
by both sides. 

The committee to whom was referred the application of 
Brethren Buckner, Thacker, and Beddoe had worked most of 
the night following Tuesday, February 24, and their report came 
Wednesday morning. 

The report provoked little discussion, save a speech from Dr. 
I. B. Kimbrough and a masterly effort by Dr. B. H. Carroll. 
Discussion was not needed, as all had read the printed statements. 
Speechmaking was cut off by a call for the previous question. 

On Wednesday afternoon, President Burleson called on all 
in the house to stand who felt they had studied the situation suf- 
ficiently to cast an intelligent vote. All stood but one man. The 
report was then put on its second reading and voted on. Its 
adoption was practically unanimous, there being but three dis- 
senting votes. 

Then on motion it was unanimously voted that the president 
extend the hand of fellowship to R. C. Buckner, W. H. Thacker, 
and A. F. Beddoe as messengers from the First Baptist Church 
of Dallas. This was the most sweeping vindication ever given 
any Baptist in Texas. The effect was, of course, to give recog- 
nition to the Buckner party as constituting the First Baptist 
Church of Dallas. 

Those brethren, though now having denominational recogni- 
tion as official representatives of the First Baptist Church, were 
not disposed to be contentious about either the name or property. 
They quietly went out and constituted themselves into the Live 
Oak Street Baptist Church. They continued a separate congre- 
gation till in 1883. In that year, the Spirit of Peace touched the 
two congregations and they became one under the wise pastorate 
of Dr. R. T. Hanks. 

Five months after his vindication by the called session of 
the General Association that body met in regular session at Ennis 
and elected R. C. Buckner as its president, as already related near 



112 Life of R. C. Buckner 

the beginning of this chapter. From that time forward his 
leadership was given glad recognition, and he was five times 
elected president of the General Association, and for the twen- 
tieth time president of the General Convention. 

Re-appointed Superintendent of Missions. — At the time of 
the Ennis meeting, July, 1880, R. C. Buckner had been super- 
intendent of missions two years, and was also president of the 
Sunday School Convention and general manager of Buckner 
Orphans Home. And though now elevated to the office of 
president of the General Association, he was still retained as 
superintendent of missions. 

This year from the fourth Sunday in 1880 to the fourth Sun- 
day in July, 1 88 1, is memorable in the annals of Texas Baptist 
history as the year of sending out Elder W. B. Bagby and wife as 
missionaries to Brazil. At the meeting of the General Associ- 
ation in Ennis, in July, 1880, Elder Bagby was recommended 
for appointment to Brazil. The General Association agreed to 
see that his expenses should be provided, or, as Brother Bagby 
expressed it, "hold the rope while he went down into the mine." 
Bagby and wife were the first foreign missionaries sent out by 
Texas Baptists. It fell to the task of R. C. Buckner, as super- 
intendent of missions, to provide for sending him out, while the 
State Convention provided for sending Mrs. Bagby. Dr. Buck- 
ner preached the sermon at Brother Bagby's ordination, and he 
and his wife sailed from Baltimore, January 15, arriving at Rio 
Janeiro, Brazil, March 2, 1881. 

During the year from July, 1880, to July, 1881, R. C. Buckner, 
as superintendent of missions, preached 132 sermons. All this 
time he was editor of "The Texas Baptist" and getting his living 
out of the paper. All his denominational work was donated. 

Rescuing the Fallen. — Buckner's work was not all denomina- 
tional work, nor was it all done in sight of the people. Some of 
his plans called for a strict observance of our Savior's injunction, 
"Let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth." 



Leadership 113 

For years he carried on the work of rescuing depraved women 
and of aiding released convicts. This was done in "strict confi- 
dence." The prestige of his leadership made it possible. Here 
we get the lesson that attainments and successes in Christian 
work may be, and should be, made stepping-stones to further 
service. 

The following from Dr. Buckner's pen appeared in "The 
Texas Baptist," October 8, 1885, and in "The Good Samaritan" 
repeatedly : 

"Anyone willing to aid unfortunate women or released con- 
victs, in efforts to reform, by giving them employment, is invited 
to address R. C. Buckner, Dallas, Texas. Mark 'private' on 
envelope. Strict confidence will be observed. Certificates of 
good standing will be required of strangers. Work in the 
country preferred." 

"Any released prisoner or person of either sex desiring to 
reform and live a pure and industrious life shall have assistance 
in finding employment by addressing R. C. Buckner, Dallas, 
Texas. Strict confidence will be observed and the past life of 
the applicant not be made known, except to parties who will 
furnish the employment. Address by mail and mark 'private* 
on envelope." 

Many unfortunates were helped and encouraged. We instance 
one or two cases. The full list is kept in Heaven, and will be 
published at the proper time. One woman was placed in a home 
with a good Christian man and his wife. She was soon after- 
wards converted and joined the Baptist church of the family 
with whom she was placed. Later she married a fine young man 
who made her a faithful, loving husband. No family in the 
community or church stood better. Dr. Buckner and the people 
who gave the woman a home were all who knew of her 
former life. 

Here is another case: Rev. George W. Baines, pastor at 
El Paso in 1887, referred to Dr. Buckner's work in an article in 



114 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"The Inter-Republics," of El Paso, commending it very highly. 
His article caught the eye of a woman who was anxious to 
reform. She wrote Dr. Buckner. A good Baptist preacher and 
his wife took her into their home. She did well, was converted, 
was baptized and became a consistent, devout worker in one of 
the best city churches in Texas. 

Instances could be multiplied. The compassionate Nazarene 
who said to a woman, "Neither do I condemn thee, go and sin no 
more," knows all about this work. Others do not need to know. 

Soul-saving Meeting. — A great meeting was held by Pastor 
Buckner with Home Baptist Church during August and Septem- 
ber, 1885. The meeting continued more than four weeks. It was 
held under a bush arbor and an immense multitude attended from 
the City of Dallas and surrounding country, estimated into the 
thousands. Many were saved and baptized, not only of the 
seventy orphans then in the Home, but of people all over the 
country. Among the saved and baptized was Mrs. S. A. Britton, 
who has been nearly thirty years a matron in Buckner Orphans 
Home, and has all these years been tenderly known as "Aunt 
Sallie." She was converted at the "Home," just inside the front 
yard gate, in the midst of a little group engaged in singing and 
praying. 

Old Folks Meeting. — During this series of revival meetings 
at Buckner Orphans' Home, there was held an "Old Folks' 
Meeting" on the first Sunday in September, 1885. All the aged 
people in Dallas County, and even out of the county, if they 
wished to attend, were invited. The crowd was estimated at 
3,000. Dr. Buckner preached from the text, "Cast me not off in 
the time of mine old age," Psalm 71 :g. After the sermon there 
was an "experience meeting," a season when those aged people 
grew happy in relating their Christian experiences. It was a 
precious season, attended by the Spirit of Grace. 

This was probably the first meeting of the kind in the State. 
The example was electrical, and similar meetings were held in 



Leadership 



115 



various places. One was held in Smith County, called by Brother 
M. M. Wadsworth. Brother A. Fitzgerald convened the aged 
of Hunt County, and in McLennan County, Deacon S. F. Sparks 
and others got aged saints together when D. R. C. Burleson gave 
the soul-strengthening discourse. 



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CHAPTER XIX 

EXACTLY WHAT GOD WOULD HAVE 

Exactly What God Would Have. — "I have not so much as a 
shadow of doubt in regard to the fact that I am doing exactly 
what God would have me do." So wrote R. C. Buckner, Decem- 
ber, 1887, in "Christian Home," Council Bluffs, Iowa, a periodical 
devoted to charity work. He further says: "Never in my 
life till God led me into this work did I feel fully satisfied. Con- 
tinually the Spirit said: 'God has other work for thee.' I was 
abundantly blessed in my labors. Still, I was not satisfied, and 
so I groped and groped, not knowing what to do. Often I would 
say to myself: 'Am I not engaged in the highest work known 
to men and angels?' The Spirit would answer, 'Aye, you are, 
but the Master has a special work for you, a work that ought 
to be done as a part of regular church work, but is not, and there- 
fore must be done by special effort/ These words came to me 
again and again, as plainly, seemingly, as if they were spoken 
by a fellow-being standing by. I am satisfied." 

These words are the key to Dr. Buckner's life and his success. 
He never asked, "How may I add to my honors?" but, "How 
may I best serve God and do good?" 

Well Rounded. — Thirty years after writing the foregoing 
paragraph he spoke of "the one-talent investment which God 
entrusted to me." He seems not to have been conscious of the 
many gifts that had been developing through the scores of years 
and which made him the well-rounded man that he is. He 
could not have stood before the Baptists of Texas and built 
Buckner Orphans Home had he not had marvelous strength as 
a preacher, editor, peacemaker, master of assemblies and ability 

116 



Exactly What God Would Have 117 

of leadership, together with spotless reputation and faith. But 
does he take credit? He declared in "The Texas Baptist," De- 
cember 5, 1907, that in the growing of Buckner Orphans Home 
he had done "no more than his plain, reasonable duty, and no 
man deserves credit for that." 

Put on Salary. — It has been repeatedly noted on preceding 
pages that Dr. Buckner did a vast deal of denominational work 
all at his own charges. He was offered remuneration over and 
over again, but he declined it. In his orphanage work he was 
doing "exactly what God would have." But then God would 
have the laborer receive pay. "Thou shalt not muzzle the ox 
that treadeth out the corn." The brethren felt that way about it 
all over Texas. In 1885 there were sixty-five children in the 
Home and that number constantly increasing. During 1885 the 
Board of Directors felt that it was not right for Dr. Buckner to 
give his time and money to building up the home and receive no 
remuneration. Then came a letter from Pastor B. H. Carroll, 
of Waco, saying that the brethren in Waco Association would 
pay $400 annually towards providing a salary for the manager 
of Buckner Orphans Home, provided all the other people in 
the State would pay an additional sum of $1,100. 

The property of the Home was now worth $20,000. Dr. 
Buckner had contributed heavily of his own means towards build- 
ing up the institution. In a single year he had given $1,000 of 
his own funds. Every year he balanced the books, contributing 
the deficit. At this very time when the proposition came from 
Waco to contribute annually towards his salary he had an out- 
standing personal note for $1,850, given to advance the institu- 
tion. His salary was at once made $1,500, and everybody was 
glad, for all the people believed he was doing exactly what God 
wanted him to do. 

Was It a Burden? — Did the manager of Buckner Orphans 
Home feel his burden? The following is from "The Good 
Samaritan," October, 1885: 



118 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"Brethren, will you allow me to be crushed under too heavy 
a burden? Last year to secure a farm I paid more than $850, 
and within a week or two I have to pay on the same farm 
$1,000, the last payment, and interest on it for a whole year. To 
do this I shall have to make a new note to lift the old one. In 
all this no one is responsible but myself. The Orphanage is not 
encumbered and has a clear title to the farm. Besides this, I 
advanced $50 yesterday to finish paying for a dozen iron bed- 
steads. None of this money has been refunded to me, of all of 
the above, except $500. When anything is bought for the insti- 
tution, and I can't pay for it at the time, I take all the risk alone 
to save it from embarrassment. Will you help to lighten the 
burden? — R. C. Buckner, General Manager." 

"Absolute and Without Condition/' — Since 1886, R. C. Buck- 
ner has been free to manage all the affairs of Buckner Orphans 
Home entirely "on his own judgment." It was not convenient 
for the institution's Board of Directors to get together for every 
important transaction, but being convinced of the interest, tact 
and ability of the general manager, they gave him full control, 
"absolute and without condition." 

We quote from the By-Laws, Article 3, Section 6 : 

"Special. — During the incumbency of R. C. Buckner, the 
father and founder of the Home, he shall also be regarded as 
the treasurer, shall pay out money on his own judgment, solicit 
funds and property, negotiate trades, erect buildings, make im- 
provements, receive and pay out money, receive and make titles 
to real estate and other property, in the name of the institution, 
using the seal of the same. He shall have full power to settle 
with the courts, administrators and executors, and all interested 
parties, in all cases of bequest to Buckner Orphans Home; to 
take possession for the institution of all money and property of 
all kinds, and execute receipts and all necessary papers. He shall 
be regarded as manager of the institution, as he has been from 
the beginning; and this shall continue in full force until his 



Exactly What God Would Have 119 

retirement or removal, or until the action of the Board. He shall 
also be regarded as the president of the corporation and perform 
all the duties of that office when so chosen by vote of the Board 
at any annual meeting. But after his retirement, nothing in this 
section of the By-Laws shall be in force following the word 
•Special/" 

While General Manager Buckner had full authority to act 
on his own judgment; he consulted with his Board on matters 
of importance, and always submitted detailed reports at their 
annual meetings. In every instance his annual report was 
approved, as well as that of the auditing committee. 

The People Believed in Buckner. — Not only did the insti- 
tution's Board of Directors believe in Buckner, but the people 
believed in him. Not only the Baptist people, but all the people. 
When God calls a man to a place of trust, he usually calls the 
people to recognize that man as God's man in that place of trust. 
Happy is the man who believes he is doing exactly what God 
wants when the people also believe it. 

When the Orphans Home was not yet five years old there 
were many Buckner Orphans Home Aid Societies in different 
parts of the State. There was one at Ennis, with W. H. Black- 
man, treasurer, and at Kemp, A. J. Still, treasurer ; one at Abi- 
lene, J. L. Pegues, treasurer; one at Forney, Birdie Alexander, 
treasurer ; another at Kaufman, Walter Allen, treasurer ; another 
at Mesquite, John H. Cullom, treasurer; another at Temple, 
Mrs. G. B. Penry, treasurer ; another at Cleburne, B. F. Clayton, 
treasurer. There were many others. 

Who belonged to these Buckner Orphans Home Aid Socie- 
ties ? Women and children ? Be it said to their praise that they 
are always in charity organizations. Did the men belong, too? 
We answer by pointing to some of the names of the Dallas 
Buckner Orphans Home Aid, each contributing monthly as 
follows : Sanger Brothers, $5 ; Royal A. Ferris, $5 ; Schneider 
& Davis, $10; C. C. Slaughter, $10; J. S. Grace, $2; Miss Laura 



120 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Gaston, $12 ; E. M. Kahn & Co., $1 ; E. M. Reardon, $1 ; W. H. 
Gaston, $5 ; M. L. Crawford, $10; Sarnie Robertson, $6; Murphy 
& Bolanz, $6 ; Jones & Fears, $2.50 ; Mrs. Barnett Gibbs, $1 ; 
E. Page & Sone, $1 ; W. H. Flippen, $12 ; Dallas National Bank, 
$12 ; Sizer & Lackey, $12. 

These were people of different religions. 

It will be observed that E. M. Kahn & Co. are on the list as 
contributing $1 monthly, but that was not the limit of Mr. 
Kahn's contributions. For instance, during the year 1885 he 
contributed $250. Many of the names here given have helped 
the Home liberally every year for more than thirty years. From 
the very first the people believed in Buckner. He never betrayed 
their trust, and as a result he has not only fed and clothed and 
educated many thousands of children, but has built up a property 
worth beyond a half-million dollars, and that property unincum- 
bered by any debt. 

Wanted Elsewhere. — If it is true that the Lord wanted Buck- 
ner mainly with orphan children, it is equally true that he also 
wanted Buckner elsewhere. Dr. Buckner's service as president 
of the General Association has been referred to, as well as his 
services in other positions. But when he believed he could accom- 
plish more good on the floor than in the president's chair, he 
would not be president ; or in the ranks than in any official posi- 
tion, he remained in the ranks. This statement finds illustration 
at the meeting of the General Association at Ennis, July 24, 1885. 

Buckner had been president of this body five years. He 
now believed the time had come for unification of all Baptist 
interests in Texas. Buckner first suggested unification. (See 
Fuller's History, page 264.) His son-in-law, A. F. Beddoe, 
M. D., a short time before the transfer of "The Texas Baptist," 
declared in that paper that unification was the thing needed. 
These were his words: "We need to unify all our forces for 
Christ and make one grand forward movement." 

Believing that the time had come for the unification of all 



Exactly What God Would Have 121 

the interests of Texas Baptists, and that he could do more for 
unification on the floor than in the chair, at the opening he took 
his place as president, called the body to order, then called 
Vice-President B. H. Carroll to the chair and said : 

"Five years ago you were here four hundred and fifty strong, 
and made choice of me by unanimous vote as your presiding 
officer. Since that time you have gone the rounds of your terri- 
tory and have each year chosen me to the same responsibility. 
The past two years I have served under protest, though I have 
at all times appreciated your confidence. I sincerely beg that 
you will not use my name in the present ballot." 

Then, casting his eye over the vast audience, he continued : 

"I see in the audience our esteemed young brother, Honorable 
L. L. Foster, the distinguished speaker of the House of Repre- 
sentatives of our State. I move that he be elected by acclamation 
as president of this body." 

There were seconds, and Mr. Foster endeavored to interpose 
an objection, but Dr. Carroll put the question, and the whole 
house stood up. 

Dr. Buckner conducted President Foster to the chair, and 
said: 

"It affords me much pleasure, sir, to conduct you to the presi- 
dential chair of this great body. I stood by you last spring in 
the House of Representatives and felt proud of you as a Chris- 
tian gentleman in a legislative way. I now feel proud of you as 
speaker of the House, called to occupy the chair of a house where 
every member is a speaker. I had something to do with bringing 
about the consolidation of our two Sunday School Conventions, 
and now I wish to stand aside and see the grand work of uniting 
all our forces go on, aiding all I can. You will find, Mr. Presi- 
dent, that this General Association is a dignified body of zealous 
workers, and they will second your efforts to conduct the business 
in a dignified, successful way." 

L. L. Foster was a polished Christian gentleman, a prohibi- 



122 Life of R. C. Buckner 

tionist, and editor of the "Groesbeck New Era." He accepted 
his duties with an appropriate speech. There is an allusion in 
Dr. Buckner's speech to his standing beside L. L. Foster in the 
legislature. It was during the last of February and the first of 
March that he visited Austin, and, without asking for it, was 
tendered the legislative hall for a speech on his orphan work. 
The result of that speech was $250 for the orphans. 

City and County Hospital. — In September, 1885, R. G. Buck- 
ner addressed an open letter to Honorable John Henry Brown, 
mayor of the City of Dallas, and published that open letter in 
"The Good Samaritan." Following are extracts : 

"Dear Sir: The editor of 'The Good Samaritan/ having 
long and favorably known you, both in official and private life, as 
a friend of the poor and unfortunate, and as a man of public 
spirit, desires to call your attention respectfully to a few things. 
The writer would love to see the county and city of Dallas unite 
in building a city and county hospital of large proportions, solid 
material and modern adaptation. At a cost of, say $10,000.00. 
This could be done, and everybody would say, 'Well done.' " 

The other things to which attention was called in this "open 
letter" were the need of a reformatory, and Dr. Buckner's work 
of saving unfortunate women and discharged convicts, already 
referred to in this memoir. 

Following are extracts from Mayor Brown's reply : 

"Rev. R. C. Buckner. My Dear Sir: Your open letter 
addressed to me in the September issue of 'The Good Samari- 
tan' has received my careful consideration. I feel honored by 
such expressions of confidence and good will coming from one 
engaged in the noble cause blessed of Heaven, to which you 
and yours are devoting your time and energies. * * * 

"You suggest that the city and county should unite in erecting 
and maintaining an institution with all the modern appliances for 
the health and comfort of invalids. As to the union of the two 
municipal bodies in such an enterprise, its wisdom would depend 



Exactly What God Would Have 123 

upon so arranging the details as to avoid all conflict of authority 
and insure directness, efficiency and responsibility in its admin- 
istration. But in any event, this rising city must, the earliest 
day possible, have such an institution." 

On the other two points, reformatory and rescue work, Mayor 
Brown replied: 

"As to the necessity of a reformatory for young offenders, if 
I were not keenly and painfully alive to the necessity for such an 
institution, I would be unworthy of the confidence of the good 
people. * * * As to your rescue work, in so far as may fall to 
my lot, whether as citizen or official, you shall have my sincere 
cooperation." 

It is worthy of note that when, twenty-seven years afterward, 
Honorable Ben Cabell was a candidate for re-election to the 
office of mayor of Dallas, he advocated the same thing com- 
mended by Dr. Buckner, namely, the cooperation of city and 
county in building hospitals, and that such institution is now in 
operation. 



CHAPTER XX 



FIELDS MULTIPLYING 



Fields Multiplying. — We have come to the day along the life- 
journey of R. C. Buckner when new fields of benevolent work 
opened before him, inviting entrance. "New fields open," did we 
say? He opened most of them himself. His rescue work has 
already been referred to. 

Homes for Children. — For many years Dr. Buckner placed 
children in good homes. This was done with the greatest cau- 
tion. He could never bear to see children of the same parents 
separated. Nor would he for a moment entertain the thought 
of putting out children in homes to be servants. Occasionally 
the following brief paragraph appeared in the papers : 

"Anyone desiring homes for dependent orphan infants or 
children in private families instead of an institution may be aided 
by addressing R. C. Buckner, Dallas, Texas." 

When some benevolent ladies organized in Dallas in 1886 "the 
Woman's Home and Day Nursery," Dr. Buckner wrote them, 
saying : 

"My work has given me excellent opportunity to learn of the 
importance of your organization. Mothers have been driven to 
the extremity of giving their babes away because unable while 
having them to get employment. I have seen this." 

Newsboys' Tea. — A glad day for the newsboys of Dallas was 
April 18, 1886. R. C. Buckner gave the boys a tea, all at his 
own expense. There were about one hundred of them. The 
good things consisted of coffee, tea, cakes, ice cream, lemonade 
and sandwiches. "The Dallas Evening Herald" commented thus : 

124 



Fields Multiplying 125 

"The entertainment will long live green in the memory of the 
boys, and Rev. Mr. Buckner will not soon be forgotten. They 
paraded the streets with the air of a crack military company." 

Buckner made the newsboys glad more than once. It was a 
common diversion with him to do such things. He is supremely 
happy when he can give his orphans an aristocratic feast. He 
does that sometimes. 

Newsboys' Evening School. — In "The Good Samaritan," May, 
1886, we read : "For some time we have ceased to write in these 
columns on the subject of 'Free Evening Schools' for such boys 
in cities as cannot attend day schools for want of time and 
money. But we have not been silent in the daily papers of our 
own city. Now, the possibility is that such school will be per- 
manently established. A lady has tendered a sum of money, and 
two others as teachers without salary. Besides, two letters are 
now on our desk from parties asking assistance." Such school 
was established later by other hands and has since become one 
of the praiseworthy institutions of Dallas. 

Humane Society. — The Dallas Humane Society was organ- 
ized June 30, 1888, with R. C. Buckner as president. "The Dal- 
las News," June 30, 1888, commented: 

"The society is now thoroughly organized from among the 
humane and solid elements of the population and promises to 
eliminate the more common forms of brutality." 

The "Texas Baptist and Herald," August 15, 1888, had this 
to say: "It is not an infrequent thing to see horses and mules 
overloaded and beaten till welts stand on their hides. Negroes 
may be seen driving horses which show unmistakable signs of 
starvation. God be praised that some of our citizens have suffi- 
cient humanity to organize to put a stop to this continued practice 
of cruelty." 

The objects of this humane society were declared to be "to 
stop cruelty to children, to rescue them from vicious influences 
and remedy their condition, to stop the beating of animals, to stop 



126 Life of R. C. Buckner 

dog fights, to stop the bleeding of calves, to stop the plucking 
of fowls, the driving of galled and disabled animals, etc." 

R. C. Buckner was the leading spirit in this humane society. 
It was the first in the State, and impressed itself on Dallas and 
the State. The Dallas city council passed humane ordinances in 
answer to its petitions. Some of its demands were enacted into 
laws more than twenty years afterward. 

About this time, 1888, R. C. Buckner advocated with great 
earnestness a system of police matronship, urging it on the city 
council of Dallas. Whether through his suggestion or not, this 
system has since been put into operation and is doing untold 
good. He was probably the first in the State to advocate such 
system. 

Charities and Correction. — In 1886, Dr. and Mrs. Buckner 
attended the thirteenth annual session, at St. Paul, Minnesota, 
of the "National Conference of Charities and Correction." 

It was the custom for representatives to go under the appoint- 
ment of governors of their respective States. Two years before 
this, Dr. Buckner was anxious to attend a session of this body at 
Louisville, Kentucky, but Governor John Ireland declined to 
make any appointments, saying, "Texas never takes part." The 
Civil War had been over nearly twenty years, but the Texas 
governor had not yet become fully "reconstructed." To his 
thinking, this "National Conference of Charities and Correction" 
was wholly "northern." He could not brook that. But the gov- 
ernor was a man of good sense and gradually softened and 
broadened. So that now, during his second term, he cheerfully 
gave the appointment to Dr. and Mrs. Buckner to go to St. Paul 
and "take part." 

A large number of eminent men and noble women partici- 
pated in the deliberations and aided in the good work of this 
organization. Among them were Ex-President Rutherford B. 
Hayes and Mrs. Hayes, of Ohio, both of whom were present at 
this meeting in St. Paul. The representation from the South was 



Fields Multiplying 127 

small, Dr. and Mrs. Buckner being the only persons present from 
Texas. Dr. Buckner attended many meetings of the conference 
during the two or three decades that followed. Two years after- 
ward, 1888, he was at the meeting in Buffalo, New York, as the 
official delegate from Texas under appointment of Governor L. S. 
Ross. 

At this meeting Dr. Buckner delivered an address on "Prisons, 
Hospitals and Orphanages in Texas." It was received with 
marked attention. Texas had a somewhat unsavory reputation 
abroad, and this assembly of lovers of humanity was very glad 
to hear a good report. His statements were not guesswork. 
Said he: 

"As to prisons and almshouses, I speak from personal obser- 
vation. ... I have visited all of them in the State except a few 
county farms." He showed that nearly all the jails had been 
built with a view to sanitation. He told of the hospital at Austin, 
owned by the city and county, and commended the plan of city 
and county cooperation in conducting hospitals. The Catholic 
orphanages at San Antonio and Austin were sketched, also the 
Bayland at Houston, and that of the Odd Fellows just opened 
at Corsicana. Then he gave a brief view of Buckner Orphans 
Home, caring for its sixty children under its own roof. 

A good impression was made. Many were glad to give him 
the hand and cultivate his acquaintance. A warm friendship 
was formed between him and Mr. F. B. Sanborn, the treasurer 
of the conference, that abided. 

During its years of effort "to obtain and diffuse knowledge" 
helpful to philanthropists, the conference, among other things, 
announced the principle "that justice rather than giving relief is 
the supreme end of philanthropy," and that "justice means the 
equalizing of opportunity." In other words, "every child has 
the right to come to its best, and in coming, has the right to 
all needed assistance." How much of this doctrine the confer- 
ence learned from Dr. Buckner does not appear, but it was a 



128 Life of R. C. Buckner 

principle of his in operation in Buckner Orphans Home before 
it was published by the conference. 

National Prison Association. — A few days after the meeting 
of the "Conference of Charities and Correction" in Buffalo, 1888, 
just referred to, the "National Prison Association" met in Bos- 
ton in its seventeenth annual session. Prominent in its councils, 
and one of its directors, was Mr. F. B. Sanborn, whose home 
was in Concord, near Boston. Mr. Sanborn gave Dr. Buckner a 
warm invitation to go with him to Boston and attend the sessions 
of the "Prison Association." Dr. Buckner attended this Boston 
meeting and enrolled as a member, paying the annual membership 
fee of $5 for many years. 

The "National Prison Association" was quite an aristocratic 
body of philanthropists. At this Boston meeting, Ex-President 
R. B. Hayes presided. On the floor was Ex-Governor Rufus 
B. Bullock, of Georgia ; the illustrious educator, Professor Fran- 
cis Wayland ; Professor C. A. Collin, of Cornell University ; Gen- 
eral Brinkerhoff, of Ohio ; and perhaps a hundred others equally 
distinguished. 

Will Buckner make a speech? He listened awhile to some 
speechmaking on "Theory and Practice" in the management of 
discharged convicts, then arose to speak. 

President Hayes: "Will the gentleman approach the chair 
and speak from the platform?" 

Dr. Buckner : "Yes, sir, I will stand close by you, Mr. Presi- 
dent. I am from Texas, and for a Texan to be 'knocked down' 
for speaking too long would never do. A Texan would not 
submit to that, so I will stand by you ; then if I am lengthy you 
just pull my coat." 

By this time he had attention. He continued : "I have been 
enlightened on 'Theory and Practice/ and I am now quite sure 
I cannot, from the standpoint of either theory or practice, 'take 
a bunghole and construct a barrel about it/ but I can tell you 
in three words how to treat a released prisoner. Treat, him 



Fields Multiplying 129 

kindly, religiously, justly. Of course, religion includes justness 
and kindness. A prisoner has served his time out at hard labor 
and the law says, 'Go free/ Before the law he stands without 
condemnation, but the people condemn him, deride him, ignore 
him, ostracise him. Kind treatment would in all probability 
reclaim him. Treat him kindly, I say. You have seen a dog 
fight, when the whipped cur ran away yelping. The boy he met 
let a stone fly at him and he yelped again. At the next corner 
another stone was fired and away he ran. The probability is he 
spent the balance of his life killing sheep or sucking eggs. Thus 
you treat the prisoner, when kindness might reclaim him. 

"Some weeks ago a man depressed and cast down, came to 
my front door. 'My name,' said he, 'is V — . Where are my 
little boys, Jim and Harry?' 

" They are all right/ I replied. 

" 'What do I owe you for taking care of them the past two 
years ?' 

" 'Nothing at all/ 

"'Well/ said he, 'I would like to take them with me/ 

" 'Have you a place to care for them ?' 

" 'No, sir/ 

" 'Well/ said I, 'do you go, as an honest and industrious man, 
and provide some means to support them and you shall have 
them/ 

"I handed him a little money, enough to secure provisions for 
twenty- four hours, and from what I have heard since, I have 
no reason to fear that he will not earn an honest living. He 
had just served two years in the State penitentiary." He after- 
wards married and settled down and was allowed to take his 
children. 

Had His Head Measured. — During the sittings of the "Prison 
Association" in Boston, a "professor" was introduced to measure 
heads. He professed to be able to tell much of one's predilec- 
tions to a life of good or evil. Calls were made for volunteers. 



130 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Others not responding, Dr. Buckner went up to the platfrom. 
All were attentive while the "professor" lectured on Buckner's 
head, explaining the kinds of heads likely to be criminals. Pres- 
ently he remarked about "long ears." "Do you mean to say," 
cried the doctor, "that I belong to the long-eared tribe?" This 
convulsed the house into laughter and merriment. After that, 
everybody knew him, and when he rose to speak, everybody 
listened. 

Dr. Buckner and F. B. Sanborn met often in the annual 
meetings and were fast friends. Four years after this meeting 
in Boston, when Grover Cleveland was elected President of the 
United States, Buckner wrote his friend Sanborn: "I am happy 
to see the Democrats win. Sorry for you Republicans. You 
have come to think the Presidency belongs to you. I am sorry 
for you." 

To this Mr. Sanborn replied: "Thank you, sir, I am a 
Democrat myself." 

Family Quarrels Settled. — Dr. Buckner was a peacemaker 
and all along found occasions to use his good offices. The case 
here, instanced, was in 1884. He was residing then on Race 
street in Dallas, and was passing a house in a sparsely settled 

section. He recognized Mr. in the front yard, face flushed 

with excitement ; three little children in .tears on the porch ; their 
mother in great rage, standing in the front door talking to her 
husband. He was making for the exit gate, and talking back 
vociferously. 

Dr. Buckner knew him well, stopped him and asked for an 
explanation. The husband and wife had separated and he was 
leaving for parts unknown. Dr. Buckner detained him, rea- 
soned with him, and pleaded with the wife, urging them to 
reconsider. 

"No," they both protested. "I'll never live with her again." 
"I'll never live with him again." "This is the last of it," both 
avowed. Buckner continued to plead, apparently with no avail. 



Fields Multiplying 131 

At last, he said : "You are both responsible for these depend- 
ent little children. God will hold you accountable. They need 
their father's support and their mother's care. I plead with you 
in the interest of your own children." 

A reconciliation was effected, then and there. The family 
moved to Houston, Texas. Several years afterward when Dr. 
Buckner was presiding over the great Baptist Convention in 
Houston, he was accosted, as the crowd was passing out after an 

evening adjournment, by this same Mr. , with smiling face 

and hearty grip of the hand, "I want to thank you, Dr. Buckner, 
for the reconciliation you effected between me and my wife. 
Our children are larger now, doing well in school, and my wife 
and I are happy and doing well. We have lived here ever since 
soon after you settled our trouble." 

A Deserted Wife Helped. — When Dallas was but a village, 
without paved streets and without police regulations, Dr. Buck- 
ner, one drizzly night, was passing along Main street, near where 
the St. George Hotel has since been built. A two-horse wagon 
was passing in the middle of the muddy street. The driver, a 
poorly clad white man, pulled the reins suddenly and called, 
"Whoa!" Then he roughly put out a woman in the rain and 
mud, drove hurriedly away and disappeared in the darkness. 

If such a thing were to occur in Dallas today, a faithful 
policeman would promptly take the matter in hand. But the 
poor deserted woman, who proved to be the wife of the heart- 
less wretch, stood alone weeping. Immediately Dr. Buckner 
went to her assistance. In the midst of her sobs, she told him 
of the only family she knew in the town, "living out in the 
cedars," and she was not sure that they were still there. Buckner 
then walked with her through the rain and mud about a mile 
south to a scattered settlement and there found the family. The 
distressed woman was given a welcome in the cottage and Dr. 
Buckner found his way back to Main street, and at a late hour 
to his own home. This was about 1878. 



132 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Books for Prisoners. — The following excerpts are interesting: 
"A library of newspapers and other reading matter, secular, re- 
ligious, scientific, historical, should be provided for every jail 
or other place where the wicked or unfortunate are confined. 
The worst men need such influences and the good deserve such 
attention." — Good Samaritan, October, 1883. 

"Visit your county jails and talk with the prisoners, and if 
you find any who really want and would appreciate copies of 
the New Testament, and are not able to buy for themselves, 
write to the 'Good Samaritan' and you shall be supplied free of 
charge. Present them to the prisoners with such suggestions 
as you think proper." — Good Samaritan, May, 1884. 

"We are in receipt of a letter from a prisoner in Houston 
county asking us to send him a Bible to the care of the sheriff. 
The request is answered by mailing a Bible free of charge. We 
will donate a Bible or Testament to every prisoner in Texas 
who wants one and is not able to pay for it. If any who read 
this article desire to share in the work, they may send us what- 
ever amount they would like to give. Forty cents will pay for 
a Bible." — Good Samaritan, June, 1884. 

This work grew and broadened, and helpful reading was 
supplied to many prisoners. Dr. Buckner gave a library to the 
county jail in Lamar County. 

Charity for Colored People. — At an early day, most of the 
colored people in Dallas were dependent on their daily earnings 
for a support. They were cooks, housekeepers, gardeners, etc., 
and their wages were small. When sick, their earnings ceased 
and sometimes they needed charity. 

Dr. Buckner observing this, set on foot a system of help, 
which proved a great blessing to many needy ones. He called 
a meeting of the colored people, impressed on them the impor- 
tance of economy and of saving a part of their earnings, and 
called on them to provide a fund to help their own needy sick, 
when unable to work. The negroes responded liberally. Then 



Fields Multiplying 



133 



he asked help of benevolent white people and these also con- 
tributed. 

This fund was put into the hands of Rev. S. P. Smith, a 
colored preacher, and his deacons. It was administered wisely 
and gave timely assistance to many. 



CHAPTER XXI 



EPISTOLARY CORRESPONDENCE 



Epistolary Correspondence. — During the twenty-five years 
from 1888 to 1913, the volume of work carried on every day by 
R. C. Buckner was astounding. At the beginning of this period, 
he was fifty-five years old, and at the end of it, eighty. 

During the twenty-five years preceding this period, he turned 
out more work than many busy men turn out in a lifetime. Nor 
did he stop work at eighty. His strength remained and he con- 
tinues in his eighty-second year, active and accomplishing an 
astounding volume of work. 

For many years he has exchanged letters with valued corre- 
spondents in all parts of America. Words of counsel were sent 
to hundreds of young people, and messages of condolence and 
encouragement to uncounted sick, bereaved and unfortunate. 
People in the shadows, hundreds and thousands of miles away, 
sought his comfort and advice. Preachers wrote him about their 
disappointments and successes, their sorrows and joys, and it 
was no small part of his religion to "weep with them that weep, 
and rejoice with them that do rejoice." Statesmen counted him 
their friend and wrote him about the affairs of State. The 
young man or young woman, with eye on the far-off mission 
field, appealed to him for sympathy and support. Fathers and 
mothers opened to him their hearts concerning their wayward 
children. Philanthropists craved the benefit of his wide study 
and ripe experience. They were never turned away empty. 

Besides numberless letters that have been lost or destroyed, 
he has a large zinc trunk packed full of treasured messages. 
They are assorted, classified and held sacred. Every one of 

134 



Epistolary Correspondence 135 

them he answered himself. If published, the letters in that zinc 
trunk would make ten volumes as large as this. Then again, 
enough other letters to make a second ten volumes are preserved 
elsewhere in files, carefully indexed, and are equally sacred. 

An explanation is found in the fact that the people every- 
where loved and confided in Buckner. Hear Dr. W. W. Lan- 
drum, Louisville, Ky. : "For years at the meetings of the South- 
ern Baptist Convention, when Dr. Buckner would rise to speak, 
the brethren would whisper: 'That is R. C. Buckner of Texas, 
the best man, they say, in all the State. We of Virginia, or 
Georgia, or Kentucky, were led to believe that Dr. Buckner was 
the best loved man in all Texas.' " — From a letter to the author, 
October 14, 1912. 

Some Interesting Excerpts. — "Brother Buckner : Let me tell 
you when and how I began preaching. Away back in 1838, I 
moved to Bastrop. At that time, I was serving Congress as 
sergeant at arms in the Senate, holding that position five years. 
In 1839, I moved to the frontier, when my impressions to preach 
returned with ten-fold weight. In the fall of 1841, I was or- 
dained to the full work of the gospel ministry, on the call of 
Macedonia Church, eight miles below Austin on the Colorado 
river; presbytery Elders Z. N. Morrell and John Woodruff. — 
N. T. Byars, Brownwood, May, 1889." 

"Dear Brother Buckner: They told me a preacher was 
preaching in Pleasant View neighborhood who could make people 
shout. That was in 1877. I went to hear him. You preached 
from Matt. 12 :30, 'He that is not with me is against me.' You 
pictured my life; it was vile. Then you held up the bleeding 
Christ and I saw the way of salvation. I went to the altar, 
and then went home. I did not sleep. As the first rays of ap- 
proaching day kissed the eastern hills, I said 'Yes/ to my Savior. 
Then came peace to my soul, a peace that passeth understanding, 
and joy unspeakable." — Elder A. J. Benson, Austin. 

"My dear Brother Buckner: Your favor enclosing $100 for 



136 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Mexican church at San Antonio, to hand and passed to credit 
with many thanks." — J. B. Cranfill. (Corresponding Secretary.) 

From Honorable S. B. Maxey : "I am enclosing you memo- 
randum on prison work and send documents, as I know you 
appreciate such data and statistics." 

From Rev. Frank Kiefer: "I send you greeting from 
Rochester, N. Y. I am the guest of Rev. J. S. Gubbleman, the 
best German preacher in the United States. I am preaching for 
him and many are being saved, though the snow is 18 inches 
deep." February, 1889. 

Rev. D. C. Hardin: "Dear Brother Buckner — A letter from 
you is like a cup of cold water on a July day, and I am now the 
happy recipient of one." 

From Rev. B. F. Riley, Birmingham, Ala. : "When I feel 
discouraged I think of you, and a certain sense of exhilaration 
and of rehabilitation, and of rejuvenation, and of stimulation, 
and of all else that is good, comes like a wooing breath of 
summertide to my jaded sensibilities." 

Dr. B. T. Blewett (Buckner's old preceptor of 1851), De- 
cember 18, 1913: "Dr. R. C. Buckner. My esteemed Brother 
— Your most welcome favor gave me great comfort in the assur- 
ance that you still remember me fondly. My first introduction 
to you by your venerated father on the campus at Georgetown 
College, Kentucky, is fresh in my memory. Time and separa- 
tion have not chilled my interest in you. I am glad that ad- 
vancing years have not weakened your zeal. God bless you and 
be with you to the end. My two sons are married and live in 
this city (St. Louis) and are a great comfort to me. My two 
daughters, unmarried, and I, live in our delightful home in the 
suburbs. I am now running rapidly into my ninety- fourth year. 
General health is good, hearing subdued. I enjoy life. My 
books and our large place keep me fully employed. The plan 
of salvation is increasingly brighter, and my trust in my Savior 
strengthens. Could I see you, I would tell you how much I 



Epistolary Correspondence 137 

love you. I offer to Sister Buckner my fond remembrance, 
and to you the assurance of my abiding affection." 

Rev. W. A. Whittle, Pastor, Birmingham, Ala., 1891 : "There 
is an outer circle and an inner circle of friends. You are of 
the inner circle, you, my dear Dr. Buckner." 

From an inmate in the penitentiary at Rusk, Texas, whose 
time was about up, 1897: "Dear Mr. Buckner — Your letter 
received. I am grateful for your kind promise to use your 
efforts in obtaining me employment. I will accept any kind of 
work, no matter how hard, just so I can make an honest start 
in life. It will be at your discretion, whether my employer shall 
know of my present condition." 

Miss Clara Barton, September 5, 1903: "Rev. R. C. Buck- 
ner. My dear Doctor — You will be interested to know that my 
labor in connection with the formation of a great National 
Advisory Board of the Red Cross is drawing to a conclusion, 
and that we shall have one of the most distinguished and influ- 
ential committees that have perhaps ever been organized in the 
United States." 

Miss Clara Barton, December 29, 1903 : "I want you to 
accept my warmest thanks, my dear doctor, for your good offices 
in procuring the acceptance of your State Treasurer of a place 
on the National Finance Committee (Red Cross). With refer- 
ence to your nomination of Hon. George W. Carroll of Beau- 
mont to serve on the Finance Committee in conjunction with 
Mr. Robins, I desire to say that, although the Finance Committee 
as at present constituted includes State Treasurers only, I can 
see no reason why, in a large State like Texas, a man of such 
eminence as Mr. Carroll, should not be included. Therefore, I 
purpose extending the invitation to Mr. Carroll, in which I shall 
take the liberty of mentioning your very warm recommendation. 
With high regards. — Clara Barton." 

We could quote entertaining extracts from letters written by 
Governor L. S. Ross, and many Texas governors, by college 



138 Life of R. C. Buckner 

presidents, by congressmen, by eminent jurists, by army chap- 
lains, by philanthropists, by mission secretaries and by mission- 
aries, by authors and by men and women in all the walks of life, 
till the reader would tire and quit. All through this work are 
examples in abundance. 

Charming Letter Writer. — Letter writing belongs to the fine 
arts. More than music, or poetry does the well-written letter 
find its way to the heart. To write a charming, soulful letter 
is an accomplishment calling for chair and professorship in 
every college. One of the secrets of Dr. Buckner's success has 
been his power as a letter writer. Heart-whispers have been 
his letters, and his reward is the throne. 

Hear the testimony of Deacon Will Dyer of Gilmer, Texas. 
Deacon Dyer has known Dr. Buckner a long, long time and has 
volunteered the tribute here quoted. Please remember as you 
read that the last official work of the immortal Z. N. Morrell 
was to ordain Will Dyer and W. S. Allen to the deaconship. 
Morrell went to Heaven December 19, 1883. Hear Brother 
Dyer: 

"Brother Buckner's letters have made hundreds happy. I 
believe I would be safe in saying thousands. They have made 
glad the home on the farm, the home of the mechanic, and of 
every occupation that human beings follow. His letters have 
lifted hundreds of feet from the pathway of sorrow, and placed 
them on the highway of good cheer. His pen has helped the 
foreigner to feel at home and be a good citizen. I heard a Jew 
say that Buckner was the very best man in this country of ours. 
Dr. Buckner writes on the heart and I do not believe there is a 
man on this earth that can erase it. Some have attempted to 
blur it, but failed. His epistles are indelibly inscribed on the 
hearts of his orphan children, and of those in sympathy with 
them. In its last analysis Buckner's work is all heart-work. 
Jesus sits by his side while he is engaged in this heart- 
work." 



Epistolary Correspondence 139 

Some lives set the heart of their friends singing, others set 
them aching. 

Said Elder J. J. Pipkin of Bryan, Texas, 1912: "Father 
Buckner lives in the hearts of more people than any other man 
in the world." 

B. H. Carroll one time introduced R. C. Buckner to Elder 
C. C. Smith as "the very best man in Texas." 

Geo. W. Truett of Dallas relates this incident: Several 
business men were at dinner in a Dallas hotel. It was during 
the trying days when there was division in the ranks of Texas 
Baptists, and when one man was suing his brethren in the courts. 
Conversation turned on the Baptist troubles. A gentleman 
asked, "Which side is Dr. Buckner on?" "On the side of the 
Convention," came the reply. "Then that settles it," said the 
other. "The man who built that orphanage would not be on 
the wrong side of any question." That did settle it. All seemed 
agreed. 

Excerpts from Buckner' s Letters. — A tender letter from H. C. 
Risner, Knoxville, Tenn., September, 1912, asks: "How is the 
dearest man on earth?" Dr. Risner, one of the most brilliant 
Chautauqua lecturers and one of the best preachers in the world, 
had passed under the shadows, but had come out in the clear 
sunlight. Keeping this in view, the reader will appreciate Dr. 
Buckner's reply: 

"My dear Brother Risner: The Lord is good to me always. 
I am well and grateful, but I am thinking. They cast the jewel 
to the ground, hoping it would never be seen again. They cov- 
ered it deep with earth. But behold, it is above ground again 
and sparkles with brilliancy unobscured." 

"Dallas, Texas, October 10, 1913. Miss Fay Davis, Cisco, 
Texas. My dear Friend — I am rejoiced to hear from you. When 
I wrote you from Manila, P. I., I could give you no idea of 
where you could reach me by mail. * * * It had been so ar- 
ranged that I could keep fairly well in touch with my Orphans 



140 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Home by having letters follow me across the land and over 
the seas. 

"While on shipboard, I often thought of my many friends 
by name, and could look them over easily, as I did the Davis 
home in Cisco. The fact is, whether at home or abroad, I think 
of you, your parents and your home very often. Since I have 
grown to be an octogenarian, I realize early friendships by a 
stretch of memory, but later friendships by an immediate realiza- 
tion of the heart. Most of my old friends have passed away, 
and a new crop has only come in since the multitudinous duties 
belonging to the responsibilities and accumulating opportunities 
of age have become so numerous that not much time is allowed 
for the enjoyment of them. 

"The friendship between you and myself began in connec- 
tion with your young school days, when my duties were so great 
that I forced myself to seek the benefit of company and corre- 
spondence with young minds and hearts not yet acquainted with 
the responsibilities of life. I value such friendships beyond 
measure. * • * . * 

"Samuel Johnson says: 'If a man does not make new ac- 
quaintances as he advances through life, he will find himself left 
alone/ But we should not seek friends and friendship simply 
for our own enjoyment. J. R. Miller had a better appreciation 
of redeemed humanity when he said: 'A true friendship is 
entirely unselfish. It loves not for what one may receive, but 
for what he may give.' * * * Right in this connection let me 
charge you to tell your dear father and mother that they must 
never drop my name from their list of friends." 

The following is from a letter written to Rev. J. H. Franklin, 
D. D., and bears the same date of the preceding: 

"Rev. J. H. Franklin, Boston, Mass. My dear Brother 
Franklin: I have before me your pleasant letter written at 
Hong Kong, China, February 7. It came too late for me to 
reply before leaving for San Francisco, and when once there I 



Epistolary Correspondence 141 

expected to see you in person. But before I reached China you 
had left for the United States. * * * Then upon reaching home, 
I found myself not merely sprinkled or poured upon but abso- 
lutely immersed in a volume of letters and other obligations, 
from which I am just beginning to be raised again. I want you 
to know that I appreciate your kind greetings and the thrill of 
Christian fellowship that seemed to guide the dictation of your 
brief letter." 

When Rev. S. G. Mullins of Corsicana, Texas, went home to 
Glory in 1912, Dr. Buckner wrote a tender letter to Brother 
Mullins* grief-stricken son, President E. Y. Mullins, Louisville, 
Ky. Following is that son's reply : "Dear Dr. Buckner : Thank 
you very much for your beautiful and comforting letter. I have 
not received a letter which I appreciate more. Coming from 
your warm heart, it is full of the kind of strength one needs in 
suffering a great bereavement. You have meant a great deal 
to me in my life, more than you yourself realize. The Lord's 
richest blessings be upon you and your work always. Cordially 
yours, E. Y. Mullins." 

We will not add others. All through this book are letters 
and excerpts taken from Dr. Buckner's correspondents. 



CHAPTER XXII 

WHERE IS THE LIMIT? 

Where is the Limit ? — Where is the limit to what a man 
can do? It varies, of course. But please, dear Reader, do not 
follow with doubts and interrogation points in your mind. Try 
to walk by faith. 

"Worked to the limit," is a common saying among busy 
people. The writer has been very close to Dr. Buckner, but has 
never heard him use that expression, or words of similar import. 
But he has seen the Doctor turn out volumes and volumes of 
work, and then run out and play with the orphan children with- 
out complaining. Even after he was an octogenarian, has seen 
him put in some solid hours, and then run out and jump with 
the boys of fifteen, and outjump them, too! 

But where is the limit to what a man can do? Let us look 
back into 1885. In that year R. C, Buckner wrote in round 
numbers 1,000 personal letters, 200 newspaper articles, distrib- 
uted 120,000 pages of printed matter, conducted a Sunday school 
through the whole year, held many prayer meetings and delivered 
sermons and lectures at various points. 

The life of the Man of Galilee is pictured to us as a Life 
"going about doing good and healing." That Life was R. C. 
Buckner's model, and to follow copy his aim. So full was that 
Life that had it all been written the world itself had not con- 
tained the books, but it was never too much occupied to hear 
the cry of distress, nor was His disciple, R. C. Buckner, ever 
too busy to hear that cry. 

A Touching Incident. — Let Dr. Buckner tell it: "It was 
during the earlier years of Buckner Orphans Home. We were 

142 



Where Is the Limit 143 

about ready to retire for the night when a timid knock was 
heard at the door. The nine o'clock train had just passed and 
we supposed the knock that of a friend, as the orphans usually 
came on the morning train, but it was a bright-faced little boy 
of eight. His clothes were ragged, but his faith was great. He 
did not know who I was, but supposing I might have some 
influence at the Home, he said: 'Mister, I want to get into the 
Orphans Home/ 

"'Who sent you?' 

"'I have no papa or mamma, but others sent me here. I do 
want to get into the home so bad/ and the tears gathered in his 
eyes. 'If you will let me in, Mister, I will give you all my 
money/ and pulling out thirty-five cents, he handed it to me. 

"By this time, my own eyes were filled with tears and I took 
the little orphan by the hand and said : 'My boy, you shall have 
a place and food and clothing as long as God's blessings continue 
to rest on us. And I will seal up your money in an envelope 
and keep it for you/ 

"I assigned him a place and he was a happy boy. I had heard 
about him before he came, and all necessary arrangements for 
caring for him had been made." 

Ladies' Aid Society. — Wide awake to every interest of the 
Kingdom, R. C. Buckner was often in advance of his brethren. 
And, though busy to the limit, if he saw where a forward step 
could be taken or a new interest started, his hands were never 
too full to take hold, and also move his brethren to take hold. 

It was he who moved the sisters in the bounds of the General 
Association to form a General Aid Society, the object of which 
was to aid the General Association by raising funds for "mis- 
sions, education and Orphans Home/* R. C. Buckner was presi- 
dent of the General Association, and was also its general finan- 
cial agent. This gave him prestige and he easily led the sisters 
to organize. 

This Ladies' General Aid Society extended from Cleburne 



144 Life of R. C. Buckner 

to Paris and from Waco to Eufaula, Indian Territory. It was 
organized at Paris, July 27, 1884. The opening prayer was led 
by R. C. Buckner. Talks on the objects and aims of the organi- 
zation were made by R. C. Buckner, R. C. Burleson and others. 
There were twenty-six names enrolled, with Mrs. C. E. W. 
Priest of Greenville as president and Mrs. W. J. Brown of 
Cleburne as secretary-treasurer. 

Mrs. C. E. W. Priest was a returned missionary from Africa, 
where she and her husband, Elder R. W. Priest, did a holy work. 
Both were consecrated workers after their return. Some of 
their children were born in Africa. 

Previous to this there were local organizations of sisters in 
various churches doing good work. Also in South Texas, in 
the territory of the Baptist State Convention, there were socie- 
ties, and a general organization, called the Woman's Missionary 
Union, with Mrs. F. B. Davis as president. The South Texas 
Woman's Missionary Union aided the State, Home and Foreign 
Missions. Among other worthy objects, they supported Mrs. 
W. B. Bagby in Brazil. 

In 1886, at Waco, the Ladies' General Aid Society and the 
Woman's Missionary Union consolidated, with the result that 
the State-wide Baptist Women Mission Workers was organ- 
ized. 

Orphans Home Aid Societies. — The Orphans Home General 
Manager, R. C. Buckner, did not wait till the "Ladies' General 
Aid" was formed (July, 1884) to lay his orphan work on the 
hearts of the sisters. He encouraged and moved them to organ- 
ize orphans home aids in many churches. 

As an illustration of the beautiful spirit and work of these 
societies, we give space to the following letter, written to 
"Aunt Vi" : 

"Kaufman, Texas, April 20, 1884. — Dear Aunt Vi: I have 
been appointed by the Buckner Orphans Home Society to write 
and let you know how our society is getting along. Well, splen- 



Where Is the Limit 145 

didly. Everybody seems to take an interest in it. We have 
about sixteen members. We would send the money we have 
in our treasury now, but will wait till we get a little more. We 
meet every Saturday afternoon at three o'clock, and have a nice 
time. (Miss) Lela Erwin." 

Who is "Aunt Vi" ? The orphan children from the very first 
have always called Mrs. R. C. Buckner, "Aunt Vi," and gradu- 
ally that endearing name has come to be applied to her all over 
Texas. If you were at the Home and speak of her as "Mrs. 
Buckner," the children would not know to whom you referred. 
"Aunt Vi" in the early days captivated the hearts of the little 
ones all over Texas. They wrote her many letters and to all 
she replied so sweetly that they were completely won over. 

A lady at Weatherford, Mrs. K. E. Hewett, who visited the 
Home in 1884, said: "Since my return I have had to answer 
many questions about 'Aunt Vi/ The little girls want to know 
if she is pretty. Of course, they think a woman who writes 
such nice letters to them must be very pretty. I was particu- 
larly struck by a question from a little boy: 'Did you see Aunt 
Vi ?' 'Yes.' 'Well, is she as good as she sounds ?' " 

Aunt Vi conducted the children's department in the "Good 
Samaritan," always signing the communication "Aunt Vi." This 
accounts largely for the name being state-wide. 

At an early day, whole Sunday schools turned to be Buckner 
Orphans Home Aid Societies. For instance, the Home was 
scarce four years old, when Ladonia Sunday school was donating 
to it the collections taken the first Sunday in every month. The 
encouraging of schools to donate to the Home the offerings of 
one Sunday in each month has been kept up through all the 
years, and now (1914) the Home has a list of 178 schools giving 
each one Sunday. The list is called the Buckner Orphans Home 
Sunday School Honor Roll. 

After the founding of the Ladies' General Aid Society (1884), 
and after the consolidation of all the Baptist interests (1886), 



146 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Dr. Buckner went right on encouraging the forming of Buckner 
Home Aid Societies, both in church and in associations. 

As an example, we point to Red Fork Association. When 
Buckner Orphans Home was not yet eight years old, there was 
in Red Fork a standing associational committee consisting of 
one sister in every church. The association at that time ex- 
tended from Harold to Childress, and from Seymour to Man- 
gum, Okla. — ioo miles north and south and ioo miles east and 
west. Mrs. A. C. Evans, of New Hope church near Vernon, 
was for some years superintendent of the orphans home work 
in the association, and the sisters in eighteen churches made 
quarterly reports to her. What was done to enlist Red Fork 
Association was done to enlist others, and they were enlisted. 
This immense volume of work Dr. Buckner did through exten- 
sive correspondence and by personal visits to all parts of North 
Texas. 

Saloons and Jails. — Jail work, finding homes for the fallen, 
and many other things have been mentioned. Dr. Buckner 
offered a year's subscription to the "Good Samaritan" to people 
in every county who would send him answers to the following 
questions : 

"Who is your sheriff? Your jailer?" 

"What is the name and address of every saloon keeper in 
your county?" 

"Has your county a poor farm? If so, how many paupers 
in it?" 

"How many prisoners in your county jail?" 

"Is there any Christian worker visiting your jail? Give his 
address." 

"Do you know any one you could recommend to visit your 
jail, carrying books and other reading matter?" 

There were a few other questions. The extensive corre- 
spondence and heavy sacrificial work of Dr. Buckner, carried 
on for many years, in connection with his efforts to uplift and 



Where Is the Limit 147 

better the condition of the fallen and unfortunate, will not be 
known until the last day. 

Royal Welcome to E. E. King. — It belongs to the fine arts to 
know how to catch a new brother on his first arrival, and "tie 
him on." Buckner knew just how to do that. Didn't he thus 
catch and tie on W. S. Huff, J. H. Curry, T. N. Coleman, R. T. 
Hanks, W. H. McGee, A. W. McGaha, B. F. Riley, W. D. 
Powell, and on down to Henry Alford Porter? 

Let Dr. E. E. King tell how it was in his case: "When I 
came to Texas in 1890, Dr. Buckner was among the first to 
extend me a royal welcome. He came to San Antonio to visit 
me and the good church of which I had the honor to be the 
pastor. Soon after this, his sister moved to the Alamo City, 
identified herself with the First Church, and I was her pastor 
for some years. I now saw and learned more of her distin- 
guished brother." This has all along been an element of Buck- 
ner's success, this meeting of the brethren, making them at home 
and tying them on. 

Pays Miss Barton's Teacher. — In 1890, Miss Laura G. Barton 
was a missionary in the Pingtu Country, China. While she 
was learning the language, Dr. Buckner wrote her, offering to 
pay the salary of a Bible woman, but she preferred that he 
would pay the salary of her teacher. She wrote him: "Why 
not pay the salary of my teacher, about $3.15 a month? If you 
will do this, you will be aiding the work and myself individually." 
Miss Barton was a physician. In the same letter from which 
the above is quoted, she says: "I devote the afternoons to the 
sick entirely. I have been visited by hundreds of patients since 
I have been here. So many come to me for medicine that I 
will have to flee to Tung Chow in self-defense." From letter 
to Dr. Buckner, May 22, 1890. 

Glad he was to comply with Miss Barton's request, and so 
he wrote Dr. J. M. Carroll, foreign agent for Texas. The fol- 
lowing is an excerpt from Dr. Carroll's reply : 



148 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"Lampasas, Texas, July 29, 1890. Dear Brother Buckner: 
Your kind favor, together with Miss Laura's and your reply, 
are before me. They made my heart burn within me. May the 
Lord graciously bless you. I thought your hands and heart 
were already full. It seems to me that any other hands and 
heart would be. I sincerely believe the Lord will supply the 
oil and meal that they waste not. Your letter has stirred my 
heart. I have thought for a long time that no man in Texas 
had a bigger contract on hand for the Lord than yourself, and 
I still see no reason for changing my opinion. Well, if you can 
find a way to help other things, why cannot I? I will write 
immediately to the board about Miss Laura's teacher. God bless 
you and the Orphans Home." 

Dr. Buckner paid Miss Barton's teacher for two years. 
Good Meeting in Home Baptist Church. — In September, 1890, 
there was held in Home Baptist Church one of the most precious 
meetings in all of Dr. Buckner's life. Writing to the "Texas 
Baptist and Herald," he says: 

"I preached in the chapel of Buckner Orphans Home twenty 
consecutive nights. A great many professed religion. Didn't 
count. But I baptized twenty-five last week and have to admin- 
ister the sacred ordinance to several others." 

Among the baptized was his youngest son, Hal F. Buckner, 
afterwards missionary to China. There were four other chil- 
dren of preachers baptized. One of them, Miss Anita Westrup, 
daughter of Missionary Westrup, who was assassinated on his 
field in Mexico a few years previously. Said Dr. Buckner: 
"Oh how glad Bro. W. D. Powell and Anita's mother will be 
when the news reaches them. When I baptized her, I wanted to 
telegraph it to Mexico about the same time the news reached the 
angels in glory." 

Pledging and not Paying. — It was rare that complaint or 
criticism of his brethren was ever heard from R. C. Buckner. 
What is here related is an exception to his rule. Texas Baptists 



Where Is the Limit 149 

in 1889 and 1890 were raising money to build a meeting house 
in San Antonio for Mexicans. There had been frequent calls 
for the money. At a mass meeting at Kyle in 1889, the Mexican 
house was brought forward and all the money subscribed. Dr. 
Buckner subscribed $100 and sent it promptly to Dr. J. B. 
Cranfill, secretary of missions. 

Sometime after this Cranfill made another call through the 
papers for money to finish the Mexican house. Seeing this call, 
Buckner wrote Cranfill: "What mean these continued calls to 
build the Mexican house? I left Kyle under the impression 
that the entire amount was made up. Have those pledges not 
all been paid? If not, then I think the appeals for more money 
ought to be based on that fact. I am tired of Baptists saying, 
'I go, sir,' and then not budging. A Baptist should regard his 
pledge to missionaries, pastor's salary, or anything else, as bind- 
ing on his conscience, on his exchequer, on his real estate and in 
law, as his note of hand with a trust deed on his real estate to 
secure it." 

This letter Dr. Cranfill published with the remark: "I do 
not suppose any thoughtful Baptist in the State or nation will 
dissent from this view." The publishing of Dr. Buckner's letter 
had a good effect in spurring the brethren forward to meet their 
obligations. 

Helping Baylor University. — "I thought your hands and 
heart already full," said J. M. Carroll. But the eye of J. M. 
Carroll did not see it all. At that very time when R. C. Buckner 
arranged to pay Miss Barton's teacher, J. M. Carroll's brother, 
B. H. Carroll, president of the Board of Trustees of Baylor Uni- 
versity, held Buckner's note for $100 to Baylor University. Three 
months later, he paid the note and at the same time sent Dr. Car- 
roll a very fine "two-story" hat. Here is Dr. Carroll's letter: 

"Waco, Texas, October, 1890. Dear Brother Buckner : Your 
kind favor received. The $100 welcome indeed, but still more 
your good words and loving spirit. Enclosed find note. 



150 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"The hat arrived all right. It was a surprise, but a most 
welcome one. It suits in every respect. It is a token that our 
old regard and friendship have never been impaired. Send to 
Brother M. H. Standifer, Orphans Home collector in our church, 
all needed literature on the Home. With very much love. B. H. 
Carroll." 

That hat! It stood up in dignified silk-hat style, or if the 
owner wished, he could press down on the crown, and its walls 
folded, and it came down low like a cap. Then it could be 
again pushed back into a tall dress hat. Carroll prized it very 
highly, and wore it to the great Baptist Conventions. In May, 
1892, when the great Texas Baptist train was speeding eastward 
to the meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention at Atlanta, 
Ga., Dr. Carroll was aboard with the hat on his head, and the 
hat standing up full height. A brother, who knew its tricks, 
stepped cautiously near and struck it on the crown. Down it 
came to the proportions of a cap, greatly to the amusement of 
many brethren. Evidently embarrassed, "You sinner, you," was 
all the good doctor was heard to articulate amid a loud uproar 
of Baptist laughter. 

About the same time Dr. Buckner paid off his $100 note to 
Baylor University, he sent this paragraph to the papers : "Think 
of the many valuable men given us by Baylor University, men 
prominent at the bar, in the pulpit, in official State position and 
in social life. All Texas has felt their power for good, and 
Mexico and Brazil are benefited. The Baylor buildings should 
be better, and endowment should be carried up to at least 
$500,000." 

"Hands and Heart Full"— "Hands and heart full," is the 
way J. M. Carroll put it. During the busy years herein sketched, 
Dr. Buckner was caring for his orphans, enlarging and receiving 
more orphans, forming orphans aids, helping the fallen, amelio- 
rating the condition of inmates of jails, bidding welcome to new- 
comers, holding meetings, helping build meeting houses, giving 



Where Is the Limit 151 

the great national councils the benefit of wide observation and 
experience, aiding Baylor with pen and money, and aiding mis- 
sionary enterprises to the remotest corners of the earth. 

Well, what else ? He was for a while a member of the Board 
of Examiners to examine teachers for the Dallas Public Schools ; 
and was petitioned to allow his name voted on for mayor of 
East Dallas, but declined. 

Well, what else? Intensely absorbed in planning and financ- 
ing the enterprise of putting up the elegant, stately brick building 
for girls at Buckner Orphans Home, and of reaching deep down 
into the earth for pure artesian water on the Home Campus. 

Well, what else? Complimenting and encouraging his 
brethren on any good thing done. Witness the following: 

"January 29, 1890. Dear Brother Buckner: Your very 
kind letter to hand. I thank you deep down in my heart for 
the very nice things you say about my new song, 'That Beautiful 
Dream/ My wife says, 'Mr. Penn, you are not the author of 
the song — it is of God.' The Lord bless and guide you. — W. E. 
Penn." 

Well, what else? Many things, as will appear as this work 
advances. And we will bear in mind that the question, "Where 
is the limit?" is not yet answered. 



CHAPTER XXIII 

THIRTY YEARS AS PRESIDENT 

Thirty years is about the average life of a generation. It 
is a matter of gratulation to Texas Baptists that Dr. Buckner, 
president of their general bodies the lifetime of a generation, 
still abides (1914) their trusted and capable president. Does 
history furnish another example where the Baptists of any State 
called one man to serve them so long as president? He was 
five years — 1875 to 1880 — president of the Sunday School Con- 
vention of the General Association; five years — 1880 to 1885 — 
president of the Baptist General Association; and twenty years 
— 1894 to 1914 — president of the Baptist General Convention. 

When he was first called to preside over their convocations, 
there were less than 75,000 Baptists in all the State. But sitting 
in 1914 on the highest seat, his eye sweeping the great State, 
President Buckner finds unspeakable joy in viewing the Baptist 
army increased nearly ten fold. 

President of Sunday School Convention. — Early in its his- 
tory the Sunday School Convention took high ground in favor 
of Baptist schools and Baptist literature. Back in the eighth and 
ninth decades of the nineteenth century, there were many advo- 
cates of union schools and union literature. The Sunday School 
Convention covered a vast territory, being commensurate with 
the General Association, and its recommendations had the 
effect to change schools by scores into Baptist schools. The 
Convention unanimously recommended the lessons published in 
"Kind Words" (Macon, Ga.), and that publication was every- 
where introduced. President Buckner was the great moving 
spirit in forwarding these steps. 

152 



Thirty Years as President 153 

Sunday School Evangelism. — From the beginning of the Con- 
vention at Longview in 1875, to its consolidation with the South 
Texas body, the Sunday and Colportage Convention in 1885, its 
main work proceeded along the lines of evangelism and house to 
house colportage work. All these years, and even earlier, Presi- 
dent Buckner himself did extensive work planting and training 
schools and sowing down the territory with Bibles and religious 
literature. Much of this work was never reported and none of 
it paid for. 

Preparatory to a great campaign of evangelism was the work 
of gathering statistics, dividing the entire field into seven dis- 
tricts and awakening a compelling, denominational Sunday school 
conscience. 

In 1883, Elder L. W. Coleman was general superintendent, 
and secured from the American Baptist Publication Society a 
donation of $2,000 in Bibles and other books. Besides himself, 
he put twelve other evangelists to work. His health failing, he 
was succeeded by Elder Kit Williams, who, counting himself, 
had six men on the field at the time of consolidation in 1885. 
When the committee, appointed for that purpose, reported at 
the meeting in Ennis a basis of consolidation with the Sunday 
School and Colportage Convention, Dr. Buckner offered the 
motion for the adoption of the report. It was unanimously 
carried. 

President of General Association. — R. C. Buckner was elected 
president of the General Association at its thirteenth annual 
session, held in Ennis, July, 1880. He had been three years 
its corresponding secretary at the time of his election, and had 
served the association faithfully at different periods as general 
financial agent. 

Dr. Buckner's election at Ennis was a vindication of his 
standing as a leader, as well as an expression of appreciation of 
his* many unselfish services. His sweeping vindication at the 
called session in Dallas, a few months previously, against the 



154 Life of R. C. Buckner 

schemes of some who sought to checkmate his influence, has 
been referred to in a former chapter. 

At this Ennis meeting were messengers from seventeen asso- 
ciations and from ninety-eight churches. The five years of 
President Buckner 's incumbency were the golden years of the 
Baptist General Association. Counting the money for education 
and cooperative work, the total raised and paid out for advanc- 
ing the Kingdom during that half decade was far beyond $50,000. 
During that period, the association's missionaries baptized about 
2,000, received nearly 3,000 by letter, organized 220 Sunday 
schools and no churches. Brilliant showing, this, for that day. 

Buckner and Unification. — The eagle eye of B. H. Carroll in 
1883 swept all Texas, noting the general bodies with their annual 
harvests, the institutions of learning with their shining output 
and the denominational papers with their unmeasured power 
for good or evil. Also, that searching sweep discovered "asso- 
ciations divided," "churches torn," and "brethren alienated." 
Then his great heart yearned for "peace." 

Carroll went to the General Association at Cleburne in 1883 
and read a report on "Relations to Other Bodies," looking to 
"unification." That was the attainment Buckner had proposed, 
and had been working for. Carroll said at Cleburne, "The 
supreme object desired is peace with all our brethren and fra- 
ternal cooperation in the work of Christ." That note struck a 
responsive chord in the heart of President Buckner and in the 
hearts of hundreds of others. This sentiment grew and gained 
momentum, so that before the meeting of the General Associa- 
tion at Ennis in July, 1885, all eyes were searching the horizon 
for gleams of a new day of "peace with all our brethren and 
fraternal cooperation in the work of Christ." 

At the Ennis meeting, stood T. S. Potts, and offered this 
Resolution : "That it is the sense of this association that, under 
existing circumstances, the interests of the denomination in the 
State would be best conserved by existence of one general body," 



Thirty Years as President 155 

etc. This was adopted, and also was adopted another resolution 
looking to the consolidation of Baylor University with Waco 
University. 

These resolutions were sent to the Baptist State Conven- 
tion at Lampasas by L. L. Foster, S. L. Morris and Henry 
Furman. 

The Convention responded favorably, declared for consolida- 
tion and appointed a committee to have the matter in hand. 
Soon the General Association in called session in Dallas, No- 
vember 19, 1885, appointed its committee to assist, and named 
Temple as the place, and December 9 as the time for the two 
committees to meet. The result was the General Association and 
the State Convention became one body, with the name of the 
"Baptist General Convention," and Baylor and Waco became 
one school, with the name of "Baylor University." 

Dr. Buckner was "among his brethren" all this time, working 
with might and main to the extent of his influence to bring about 
these desired results. One of his suggestions adopted was the 
new name, "The Baptist General Convention." 

He labored with the editors of the two papers, endeavoring 
to bring them together, for all believed that with two denomi- 
national papers, unification in Texas would be a failure, and it 
was his joy, along with the whole Baptist General Convention, 
when, at its first meeting in Waco, July, 1886, J. B. Link an- 
nounced that he had sold the "Texas Baptist Herald" to S. A. 
Hay den. This seemed to be the end of a troublesome matter 
and the whole Convention arose and sang "Praise God from 
Whom all Blessings Flow." 

Unification was effected. All the Baptists in Texas were 
one host. The outlook for the Orphans Home, for missions 
and for education was now as bright as a springtime morning. 
Dr. Buckner was happy. 

Nine Years Retirement. — After retiring from the presidency 
of the General Association in 1885, Dr. Buckner had an inter- 



156 Life of R. C. Buckner 

regnum of nine years. But when the Convention did get hold 
of him again, it held him for twenty years. 

During the nine years consolidation was perfected and it now 
looked like the golden era of peace and prosperity had come. 
But no! Quickly came a tempest of discord and dissension 
lasting many years. Much we shall cover with the mantle of 
charity. It was in the early rise of those stormy days that Dr. 
Buckner was again called to the front, as we shall see further on. 

Stately Building for Girls. — During the years immediately 
following consolidation, Dr. Buckner would not allow himself to 
be brought to the front in the General Convention or its work. 
He attended the annual meetings, and stood with his money and 
influence for all its laudable aims. He was sometimes on im- 
portant committees, and in 1889 wrote the report "On Attitude 
of Baptists Toward the Liquor Traffic," which was as follows: 
"The attitude of Baptists toward the liquor traffic is one of well- 
defined, emphatic and persistent antagonism." 

But why not in the front in Convention work during those 
years? To say his hands were full, tells but a part of the story. 
One great vision rose up before his eye, remained, and over- 
shadowed all else. That was the vision of a superb brick build- 
ing that might house the girls of his great growing family of 
two hundred, then three hundred, and up. But those were years 
of a paralyzing financial crisis beyond anything known since the 
Civil War, and with no gleam of light of a better day. Could 
the money be found to put up the building and at the same time 
feed the children? In 1889, with the imperial B. H. Carroll as 
president of the Board of Directors, with its indomitable A. J. 
Holt as corresponding secretary on the field, and nearly one 
thousand pastors and missionaries assisting, the total sum raised 
among the Baptists in all Texas for missions, education and 
aged ministers, was less than $45,000. It would require $60,000 
to put up the building, and it was this year, 1889, tnat plans 
were laid to put it up. 



Thirty Years as President 157 

No man could set bounds to Dr. Buckner's plans. The pre- 
ceding year, October 6, 1888, the Board of Directors of Buckner 
Orphans Home passed the following: 

"Whereas, we believe it to be for the general interest of the 
Home, and at the same time it is only rendering honor to whom 
honor is due, therefore, be it 

"Resolved, That we, as a just compliment to R. C. Buckner, 
for whom we have already named the Home, do hereby confer 
on him the general title of General Manager, A. U. C, absque 
ulla conditione (without any condition). 

"Resolved, That after his retirement this title, with the ex- 
traordinary duties and privileges implied in it, shall never be 
conferred on, or exercised by, any of his successors or future 
officials of this institution." 

Many of Dr. Buckner's friends trembled, but he himself 
went ahead, proceeding along the line of his principle, "Faith 
and Works/' and contracted for 750,000 bricks on his own respon- 
sibility. 

How did he get on? In August, 1890, he put this paragraph 
in the "Texas Baptist and Herald" : "We have money enough 
belonging to the fund for the main building, to pay for the 
750,000 brick necessary to its construction, but several thousand 
more dollars are necessary to purchase other material for 
construction." 

How about funds for current expenses at this time? In 
July, 1890, Dr. Buckner sent this paragraph to the papers: 
"We have been out of flour for months, only as I have bought 
it on my own account, never less than 3,000 pounds a month. 
Last week, I bought on a credit, 1,500 pounds of flour, 500 
pounds of bacon and 40 gallons of syrup." 

How did he come out? In "The Baptist Standard" of June 
17, 1895, appeared this announcement: "The home-stretch has 
been accomplished. The Orphans Home $60,000 brick house 
has been finished and I hold receipts in full against all carpen- 



158 Life of R. C. Buckner 

ters, metallic roofers, plaster and cement men, who did the work, 
and for all material used. The property of the Home is now 
worth $100,000, and there is no debt to be paid. I have never 
borrowed money for it, except in my own name, and every dollar 
borrowed has been paid. Join me in thanking God for all of 
this. I wish also to thank all who have given anything, and all 
who have been so kind as not to hinder. During all this time 
of building, a large family has been maintained, now approxi- 
mately 350. — R. C. Buckner." 

What did business men think? The following excerpt is 
from a letter to Dr. Buckner by Col. W. L. Williams of Dallas: 
"Dear Brother Buckner: I feel thankful to God for the com- 
pletion of the new building. I rejoice at your truly wonderful 
success in carrying through that great work, and that in the 
midst of the greatest financial panic the world has known in 
many ages. I herewith enclose my check for $25." 

This paragraph is from the "Dallas Daily Times Herald": 
"Dr. Buckner, the originator and manager of the Orphans Home, 
has the admiration and confidence of our business men in his 
business management, in which capacity, as well as in religious 
circles, he has been long and favorably known in Dallas." 

This imposing "Girls' Building" presents one hundred and 
thirty feet front by one hundred and ten feet deep, has four 
floors and is forty-four feet from the ground floor to the top 
ceiling. It would have been an ornament to any city in the 
State, and would be yet. It is now the Home of three hundred 
and seventy-five happy girls. On a marble slab in the front wall 

"Buckner Orphans Home, 

Founded by R. C. Buckner, 1880. 

Erected, 1891. 

Designed by the Founder." 

We insert here Dr. Buckner's description of the building, 
1894, sublime in its very brevity: 



Thirty Years as President 159 

"Pressed brick building with four floors, giving room for 
four hundred girls, besides cook and store rooms, play rooms, 
dining hall for the entire institution, executive departments, and 
an observatory overlooking Dallas and all the railroads approach- 
ing it, also fourteen surrounding towns; steam heat and water 
service for this building and for all other houses and premises 
supplied by its own artesian well." 

Visits North Carolina Orphanage. — The splendid brick for 
girls was progressing satisfactorily, so Dr. Buckner took a run 
into North Carolina to visit the Baptist Orphanage at Thomas- 
ville. The children enjoyed his speech. A little girl wrote: 
"Whiskers cover his face, but you can see man in his eyes. He 
is not proud, but he says he is proud — proud of the boys and 
girls placed under his care. He told us some of his boys and 
girls were not always good, and had to be punished. He said 
one little boy was sent to look for a cow and climbed up a tree. 
Then he asked the boys if they would go cow-hunting up a tree, 
and we had a laugh. But there was a sad ending to his story. 
The little fellow lost his hold and fell to the ground, breaking 
his arms, which was caused by disobedience." 

Artesian Well. — It was while the stately brick for girls was 
being erected that Foreign Mission Agent J. M. Carroll sent Dr. 
Buckner this excerpt : "I thought no man in Texas had a bigger 
contract on his hand for the Lord than yourself." And yet 
before that brick for girls was all paid for, this same J. M. 
Carroll printed in his paper, "The Missionary Journal" (Sep- 
tember, 1893), the following announcement: 

"The artesian well committee turned the well over to Dr. 
Buckner with over $500 unpaid, which he assumed. Four days 
thereafter it was demonstrated that an abundance of water had 
been reached, but no flow. He bought a steam pump at an 
additional cost of $355. He had already fallen behind $700 
on the grocery bill, but Dr. Buckner is full of hope. He says: 
'There is nothing blue about me.' " 



160 Life of R. C. Buckner 

The well was a necessity. It is more than 2,200 feet deep 
and now, after twenty years, it is still furnishing the Home with 
an abundance of pure water. With plenty of water, it was not 
long before a modern light and heating plant was installed. The 
plant was, and is, operated by the "power-house boys," enabling 
them to learn a good trade and secure good positions. 

Prosperous Condition, 1894. — That Buckner Orphans Home 
was in a prosperous condition at the time its general manager 
accepted the presidency of the General Convention in 1894, will 
appear from this paragraph taken from his report: 

"More than 500 acres of land, forty cattle, eight mules, four 
horses, a large young orchard, an excellent barn with iron roof, 
a well-furnished schoolhouse, a good sanitorium, two stories 
high, no sick, wooden buildings for more than one hundred boys, 
new pressed-brick building with four floors, giving room for 
four hundred girls." 

In the Interests of Peace. — The election of Dr. Buckner at 
Marshall as president of the Baptist General Convention was a 
peace measure. The Convention met October 12, 1894. On 
motion of Dr. W. H. Parks, President Buckner was chosen. On 
Saturday, October 14, the following paragraph appeared in "The 
Dallas News" : 

"The supporters of the board claim that the board will be 
sustained, and say, in support of that claim, that the vote for 
president, in which Dr. Buckner was elected over Dr. Burleson, 
by a vote of 232 to 92, was a test vote of the comparative strength 
of the two sides." 

In view of the foregoing paragraph, Dr. W. H. Parks offered, 
and the Convention adopted, the following: 

"Whereas, In putting Dr. Buckner in nomination it was dis- 
tinctly stated that it was because he was not identified with 
either party to our unfortunate troubles, and he was voted for 
with that understanding clearly in the minds of the members; 
therefore, 



Thirty Years as President 161 

"Resolved, That the aforesaid publication does great injus- 
tice to Dr. Buckner and to all parties concerned. 

"2. That the election of Dr. Buckner is regarded as an 
expression of peace," etc. 

"3. That the appointments and rulings of our president, 
Dr. Buckner, so far, fully justify the expectations of the Con- 
vention in electing him as a nonpartisan. 

"4. That 'The Dallas News' be requested to publish this 
paper." 

"The Dallas News" published the paper as above. The Con- 
vention sustained its board. 

Elected While Writing a Hymn. — While the General Con- 
vention at Marshall was balloting for president, Dr. Buckner 
was out of the house, under a tree writing the beautiful hymn, 
entitled, "Following Jesus." The hymn afterwards appeared in 
a very popular collection of hymns and tunes, called "Bells of 
Heaven," published by Elder J. C. F. Kyger. Buckner had 
scarcely completed the hymn when a committee from the Con- 
vention came and notified him of his election. 

The choosing of officers did not take place until in the after- 
noon. In the forenoon, Dr. Buckner was busy among the people 
about the meeting house, collecting money for some of his char- 
itable enterprises. In the afternoon, while the Convention was 
ballotting, he was writing the hymn. He was witness to very 
little that was said or done before his election. The hymn is 
reproduced here: 

"I have heard my Saviour's warning, 
And it filled my soul with yearning, 
Then I heard him gently calling, 
'Come, poor soul, and follow, follow me/ 
I will turn from sin and sorrow, 
Seek relief from sin and sorrow, 
Waiting not until tomorrow, 
For He calls me, bids me turn today. 



162 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Chorus : — Jesus leads and I will follow, 
Jesus leads and I will follow, 
Jesus leads me and I'll follow, 
And be faithful, faithful all the way." 
"I will go with Him to Jordan, 
With Him down into the Jordan, 
And be buried in its waters, 
Having died to, turned from every sin. 
Then I'll rise and still go with Him, 
I'll arise and still go with Him, 
And declare His resurrection, 
And will walk, will walk with Him alway." 
Chorus. 

"I will eat the sacred supper, 
Till He comes, I will remember 
How He gave His broken body, 
Pierced and bleeding, bleeding for my soul. 
I will go down to Bethesda, 
And will help the maimed and sick ones, 
To the glory, glory of His name. 
Chorus. 

"I'll go to the house of mourning, 
With Him to the house of mourning; 
I will seek the broken-hearted, 
And will cheer them, help them on the way. 
When He calls me from earth judgment, 
Saints and sinners up to judgment, 
I will gladly heed the summons, 
Having followed, followed all the way." 
Chorus. 



CHAPTER XXIV 

SOME STORMY CONVENTIONS 

Some Stormy Conventions. — The saddest chapter in Texas 
Baptist history then, and in the years following, was the strange, 
inexcusable opposition to the Convention's Board of Directors 
and to its heroic, unselfish work. Volumes are hid in this short 
sentence, taken from the Board's report, 1894: "Divisions have 
hurt us." 

Unpaid Services. — The president of the Convention gives 
his time and services without money and without price, as do 
all the thirty-five brethren who composed the Board of Directors, 
of which he was also, ex-officio, a member, save the correspond- 
ing secretary. He only receives pay. 

During the first two years of President Buckner's incum- 
bency the Board was located at Waco. When Dr. Buckner was 
chosen, J. M. Carroll was corresponding secretary, but soon 
afterwards on account of sickness in his family, was obliged to 
resign, when M. D. Early, who had been serving as general mis- 
sionary, was chosen, beginning January, 1896. Dr. Early con- 
tinued a year and was succeeded in January, 1897, by J. B. 
Gambrell. Dr. Gambrell continued in office till 19 10, when 
he was succeeded by F. M. McConnell. 

The early frequent changes in the corresponding secretary's 
office were a hindrance to collections. But more serious were 
the criticisms on the Board and its methods, and repeated, and 
printed many times. The tendency was to discredit the chosen 
servants of the denomination and lessen contributions. But a 
great work was done nevertheless. The first year of President 
Buckner's incumbency ninety-three missionaries were kept in 

163 



164 Life of R. C. Buckner 

the field, averaging 266 days each, baptizing 1,516 converts and 
organizing seventy-seven churches; the next year sixty-six mis- 
sionaries, averaging 242 days, baptizing 898 and organizing 
nineteen churches. 

At the San Antonio convention, 1897, on motion of Deacon 
(Judge) W. H. Jenkins of Waco, the location of the Board of 
Directors was changed from Waco to Dallas, where it has re- 
mained ever since. This action was taken in the vain hope that 
criticism would be less antagonistic. 

Belton Convention, i8p5. — Some principles were defined and 
declared at Belton in 1895 that have served to guide the Conven- 
tion and its president. A type of teaching which declared that 
"perfect and full assurance of salvation comes with regenera- 
tion" was disturbing the denomination in the State, as was also 
another, that "Christ is not the believer's substitute." 

The Convention took important action respecting messengers 
in sympathy with either of these views, and at the same time 
declared: "The Convention is composed of persons chosen by 
churches, associations and missionary societies as their messen- 
gers; and when said persons are convened, they, and not the 
churches, are the Convention." The setting in full view this 
principle, that the "Convention is composed of persons * * * 
etc." was a powerful weapon in President Buckner's hand three 
years later. 

Houston Convention, 1896. — At Houston the patience of the 
Baptist General Convention was sorely tried. The Board de- 
clared that it had been charged "directly and indirectly, and by 
various methods of innuendo and insinuation, with misappropri- 
ation, wanton extravagance and reckless waste of public funds. 
* * * To all these things the Board, in the interest of peace, 
has answered nothing, quietly giving of our means without stint, 
and of our time and labor without compensation, to the holy 
cause of missions entrusted to us." 

The Convention, on hearing this read, was grieved that any 



Some Stormy Conventions 165 

man would thus embarrass its agents or their work. Feeling 
was tense, and the Convention passed resolutions asking the 
brother, who had so long and persistently accused the Board, 
"that he refrain and desist in the future from such attacks upon 
said Board of Directors, as a Board, or upon its members 
as such." 

At times during the sittings there was much confusion. Many- 
rose at the same moment to speak, others were calling points of 
order, and yet others demanding the floor on ground of personal 
privilege. There were motions to table, to postpone, to recon- 
sider, objections to consider, calls for previous question, and so 
on. President Buckner recently referred to it as a "rapid firing 
to be compared with that of a modern military machine gun." 

Impartial and Unbiased Rulings. — There were some exciting 
scenes during this Houston Convention, testing the ability of 
the presiding officer. At the evening session of the fifth and last 
day, Pastor A. B. Miller of Bonham offered the following, which 
was adopted: 

"Whereas, This session of the Baptist General Convention 
has been such an one as to thoroughly test the wisdom of any 
presiding officer; therefore, 

"Resolved, That to R. C. Buckner, president, are due the 
thanks of this body for his calm, cool, deliberate, impartial and 
unbiased rulings during the deliberations of this Convention." 

San Antonio Convention, 1897. — The Convention was scarcely 
called together in session, and not yet organized, when a tele- 
gram from Dr. B. H. Carroll to Judge W. H. Jenkins was read 
as follows: "Wife is dying." 

At the request of the president, all "joined Geo. W. Truett 
in prayer that God's grace might be vouchsafed to the grief- 
stricken family." 

This meeting at San Antonio was no less stormy than had 
been the last at Houston. The right of certain individuals to 
seats in the Convention was challenged. There was speech- 



166 Life of R. C. Buckner 

making and a strained situation. The wisdom and ability of the 
presiding officer was again put to the test. But all were pleased. 
There is no record in the proceedings of any appeal from his 
rulings. 

The outlook was brighter. The report of the Board was on 
a cheerful key. We quote: "The organized workers are more 
solidly together than ever before. * * * All centers are united 
and aggressive for higher denominational life." 

Waco Convention, 1898. — This paragraph is from "The Bap- 
tist Argus," published in Louisville, Kentucky: 

"Because of the issues and incidents of previous sessions of 
the Convention, the interest that centered in this Waco meeting 
was intense to a marked degree. What would be sprung upon 
the Convention no one seemed to know ; but that something sur- 
prising would be sprung upon the body seemed to be the expecta- 
tion of all." 

It was thus it looked to an editor from another State. He 
viewed correctly. The meeting was held in the great Baptist 
tabernacle, seating easily 3,000 people, but there was an overflow 
of about 1,000. President Buckner called the house to order. 
Because of the overflow and scramble for seats, Dr. R. J. Wil- 
lingham of Richmond, Virginia, was requested to repair to the 
meeting-house and preach to the overflow crowd. 

Historic Ruling. — Again we quote from "The Baptist Argus" : 

"It was commonly expected and freely rumored that chal- 
lenges would be offered in the body against different persons. 
It was particularly rumored and expected that the messengers 
from the First Church of Dallas would be challenged. The chal- 
lenge came, but to the surprise of all, it was against the church 
itself, and not against the individual messengers of the church. 
When this challenge was announced, quick as the lightning flash 
came another surprise on the body in President Buckner's ruling 
out the challenge. His ruling was that such a challenge was out 
of order because the Convention is composed, not of churches, 



Some Stormy Conventions 167 

but of individual messengers. The effect of the ruling was 
instantaneous. No appeal was made from it. The invaluable 
time of the vast body was conserved, and in a moment the body 
was proceeding earnestly with its legitimate business. All this 
happened in less time than it has taken the reader to read this 
brief account." 

Instantly a motion was made and carried that all unchallenged 
messengers be seated. This seated the brethren from the First 
Baptist Church of Dallas and two other churches, challenges 
having been lodged against those churches and not against their 
messengers. 

Then arose B. H. Carroll and placed in nomination R. C. 
Buckner for president, who was elected with enthusiasm. "Praise 
God from Whom All Blessings Flow" was sung. President 
Buckner spoke with great tenderness, calling on the brethren to 
assist him by observing that decorum becoming a great body of 
followers of the meek and lowly Jesus. Again the Convention 
stood and sang "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name." 

The "Word and Way," published at Kansas City, Missouri, 
commented as follows: "Dr. Carroll, in terms of the strongest 
praise, presented the name of Dr. R. C. Buckner for moderator. 
The motion was made that he be elected by a rising vote. Almost 
everyone in the house stood up. This evidence of enthusiastic 
and unanimous confidence moved Dr. Buckner to tears, and there 
was tenderness, humility and gratitude in his speech of accep- 
tance. * * * It was the largest body of Baptists that had ever 
come together in the world." 

Hear also the editorial from "The Baptist Beacon," pub- 
lished at Ardmore, Indian Territory (Oklahoma) : "Dr. Buck- 
ner was re-elected president. For promptness and decisiveness 
in ruling, I never saw anything like it. Dr. Buckner came out 
with nerve and decision." 

Soon after this there was a lawsuit, an appeal to the courts. 
The suit went through the courts from the lowest to the Supreme 



168 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Court of the State. That high tribunal decided that the Bap- 
tist General Convention had a right to determine its own 
membership. Thus was the ruling of President Buckner vin- 
dicated. 

Dallas Convention, 1899. — The reader will recall that at the 
Houston Convention in 1896, President Buckner was tendered 
a vote of thanks "for his calm, cool, deliberate, impartial and 
unbiased rulings," declaring that that session had been "such an 
one as to thoroughly test the wisdom of any presiding officer." 
The session at San Antonio had been equally sensational. At 
Waco in the midst of intense feeling came the famous ruling 
that the Convention is composed, not of churches, but of indi- 
vidual messengers. And this ruling sent a thrill to every great 
representative deliberative body throughout the world. But the 
wisdom of the Convention's president was to be tested again. 
This Dallas Convention was held in the great Music Hall Audi- 
torium of the Texas State Fair Association, with capacity for 
seating about 4,000 persons. 

Avalanche of Challenges. — The Convention was scarcely 
opened for business when it was overwhelmed with challenges. 
The seat of the president was challenged, and that of every mem- 
ber of the Board of Directors, besides the seats of many brethren. 
It was clear to the great body of the Convention that much of 
this challenging was in a captious spirit, rather than with a view 
of upholding some fundamental Convention principle. 

The echo of the reading of the list of challenges was scarcely 
hushed when R. T. Hanks was on his feet and objected to con- 
sidering the challenge against the president of the Convention. 
The objection was sustained by vote of the body. Now came 
rapid firing, calling for rulings from the chair. A brother 
objected to considering any of the challenges. Objection not 
sustained by the body, and so announced. Division called for. 
Ruled out of order on ground that call came too late — after vote 
had been taken and announced by the chair. A motion was made 



Some Stormy Conventions 169 

to lay on the table. Ruled out of order, as no motion had been 
made to adopt. 

A brother moved that five messengers from "the church 
party" be added to the committee on credentials, stating that the 
brethren already on the committee belonged to "the board party." 
The point was raised that the motion was out of order, since 
there was no such thing known to the Convention as "the church 
party" or "the board party." The point was sustained. 

There were many such rulings, all of them satisfactory to the 
majority. The disposing of challenges, together with some fili- 
bustering, kept the body from selecting its officers till the after- 
noon of the second day, when R. C. Buckner was again chosen. 
"Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow" was sung. Presi- 
dent Buckner was not in the hall when the vote was taken for 
president, but a moment later he came in and passed down the 
aisle, followed by about two hundred orphan children. The 
children were conducted to the platform, and there Dr. Buckner 
explained that the children had been waiting outside for an hour, 
but under no consideration would he have permitted them to 
enter while his name was being voted on for president. They 
sang a beautiful hymn, and J. M. Gaddy took pledges for the 
Home amounting to $4,000. At the evening session President 
Buckner made a touching speech of acceptance, of which the 
following is an excerpt: 

"Brethren of the Baptist General Convention of Texas : There 
are few words that I shall utter at this time. If I were master 
of the most expressive words belonging to any language, they 
would afford but a poor vehicle through which to convey to you 
the appreciation that I feel in my heart of the vote by which I 
have been again, for the sixth consecutive time, chosen as your 
president. * * * Now, not to dwell upon these remarks, so 
intensely personal to myself, I want to say that looking back 
over the forty-nine years of my ministry, whether with reference 
to a pastorate, the leadership of a district association, the presi- 



170 Life of R. C. Buckner 

dency of a State convention, or any other general body, I have 
never sought nor invited position. I never went candidating for 
a pulpit, nor did I ever ask or intimate to a friend that I wanted 
his support. I take it that the united voice of this, the greatest 
Baptist Convention known to history as having ever assembled 
on the face of the earth — I take it that the unanimous rising vote 
today calling me to this position is the voice of God, whom you 
serve. And although I have not coveted the responsibilities of 
this charge, I accept them with all the warmth of my heart, whose 
pulsations beat on together with your own in the direction of 
everything that may be blessed of God to the interests that this 
grand body may have in their hearts. And may God's blessings 
rest upon every member of this body." 

Waco Convention, ipoo. — It was evident to the Waco meet- 
ing that the storm was abating. There was a great coming 
together of the workers. Some challenges were disposed of in 
short order, and quickly the body was giving itself to its great 
tasks of missions and education. 

A pleasing incident at the evening session of the first day 
was the joining in holy matrimony of Elder C. B. Hukill and 
Miss Jean Goff. They were introduced to the platform by 
Elder A. J. Harris, and many pleasant words were spoken con- 
cerning the sterling worth and untiring zeal of Brother Hukill 
as a minister, and of the beautiful character and devout consecra- 
tion of Miss Goff. Then President Buckner in earnest fashion 
pronounced the words that made them husband and wife. Among 
the gifts was a large red apple. Dr. Buckner took the apple and 
handed it to the bride with these words : "Eve, give this apple to 
Adam." She handed it to her husband, which was immensely 
enjoyed by 2,000 people. 

The Waco meeting was the last "stormy Convention." The 
next, in Forth Worth in 1901, was characterized by "harmony 
of feeling and concert of action that made all happy." Fellow- 
ship rose like a wave, and the Convention was soon on the moun- 



Some Stormy Conventions 171 

tain-top. The Board of Directors had been located in Dallas in 
1897, and the work of the Convention went steadily forward. 
The reader will welcome the following paragraph from the 
Board's report, 1904: 

"From 1897 onward to the present auspicious hour there has 
been steady progress in all the work of this Convention. The 
report of 1897 showed sixty-six missionaries; this shows 267. 
That showed nineteen churches constituted ; this, 128. That 
showed 1,348 brought into the churches; this shows 11,682. 
Then strife and confusion well-nigh covered the field ; now, only 
here and there is the peace of the brotherhood marred. The 
growth has not been spasmodic, but steady. Year by year the 
work has enlarged. The forces have advanced like a disciplined 
army, never going backward, always going forward. When this 
body met in 1897, our schools, all except one, were on the brink 
of financial ruin. They have all been relieved of debt. The 
Convention forces have raised more than $650,000 for education." 



CHAPTER XXV 

SPEECH BEFORE NATIONAL PRISON ASSOCIATION 

National Prison Association. — Dr. Buckner's main work was 
humanitarian. Hence, as already observed, we find him year by 
year attending the national meetings. 

The National Prison Association, which was organized as far 
back as 1870, was composed of the wisest philanthropists and 
some of the most eminent statesmen of the American nation. 
In October, 1898, this association held a session at Indianapolis, 
Indiana. Then three months later, January, 1899, an enthusi- 
astic adjourned meeting was held in New Orleans, Louisiana. 
It was the custom of Dr. Buckner to attend its meetings, whether 
in Boston or New Orleans or elsewhere. 

The meeting in New Orleans was opened Saturday, January 
21. R. W. McClaughry of Joliet, Illinois, was president. Each 
yearly meeting was commonly known as the "National Prison 
Congress." 

Dr. Buckner's address was on "Preventive Work." It was 
praised by his hearers as a speech on "Child Saving," and indeed 
it could be so named. It impressed the Prison Congress pro- 
foundly. The Association had it printed and sent it to every 
State, to Canada and to Europe. It is worthy to be reproduced 
here. 

Address on Preventive Work. — "The distinguished president 
of the National Prison Congress said of preventive work in his 
opening address last evening : Tt is the most important work laid 
upon those who would purify society.' I prefer to make Pre- 
ventive Work my theme rather than to consider reformatory 
work in connection with it at this time. If preventive work 
could be successful in all cases, there would be no call for 
reformatory work. All possible reasons for reformatory work 

172 



National Prison Association Speech 173 

and all the difficulties connected with it afford so many argu- 
ments in favor of preventive work. 

Take Care of the Children. — "If all sickness could be 
avoided, the time of nurses and physicians and the cost of medi- 
cines would be saved; and, moreover, the enjoyment of health 
would be perpetual instead of the suffering and inconvenience of 
being ill. Even so, if the minds, bodies and morals of the chil- 
dren were promptly cared for by protecting them against evil 
influences and by developing them throughout the years of youth, 
the men and women of our country would be mentally and 
physically vigorous, sound in morals and capable of a high 
degree of happiness and usefulness. But if the child be neglected 
as to its mental, moral and physical being, it will be comparatively 
an intellectual dwarf and a physical and moral wreck. As, there- 
fore, we would have a nation of healthy, vigorous men and 
women, great in intellect, correct in morals and noble in purposes 
and achievements, we should take care of the children. We 
should cultivate the capacities with which the Creator has en- 
dowed them, fortify them against evil, that they may not form 
habits of neglect as to good, nor be led into practices that would 
call for reformatory work, with all the cost of time, tact, talent 
and treasure involved, and yet often expended in vain. 

"From these remarks it will be understood that I am pro- 
foundly convinced that preventive work should be undertaken 
with very young children — aye, with infancy itself. It is then 
that channels are marked out for the flow of the affections, 
habits of thought and the exercise of taste; and as to physical 
development, all know it is then progressing. A babe lay in his 
cradle, over which a mosquito bar had been spread just above 
the reach of his tiny hands. Every day a picture, first one and 
then another, in attractive colors was placed face down on the 
mosquito bar where the child could gaze upon its form and 
colors. He soon learned to expect a picture when laid in his 
cradle, and thus fretfulness and restlessness were in a measure 



174 Life of R. C. Buckner 

prevented and his admiration for the beautiful was also culti- 
vated. A little older and in his mother's arms one day, he saw 
a picture on the wall and, reaching out his chubby hand, ex- 
claimed : 'Dookee, dookee, dookee, dar !' These were the first 
words that ever came from his infant lips, and they expressed 
his admiration for the beautiful. He is now a strong man, has 
charge of a steam and electric light plant, keeps the machinery 
bright and clean, the engine-room as clean as a parlor and deco- 
rated with a variety of growing plants and flowers ; and as you 
would expect, pictures hanging on the white plastered walls. 
(The babe referred to was Dr. Buckner's own son, Joe Dudley 
Buckner. The steam and electric light plant, operated in after 
life, was the plant at Buckner Orphans Home.) 

"Point out to the children all that is beautiful in nature and 
art, and especially hold up before them the loveliness of honesty, 
truth, temperance, purity and industry. Teach them to under- 
stand the beauty and worth of such things, and they will learn 
to love them, talk and read about them, and practice them; and 
then they will not so likely need to be reformed. Teach them 
to love mother and home, and to hope for heaven, and they will 
not seek unholy companions, look for amusement in evil places 
and hasten hellward. 

Begin in the Family. — "Preventive work should begin in the 
family and should be conducted by those upon whom God has 
placed the fearful responsibility of parentage. The family is 
God's own and first institution, and the most powerful to prevent 
the formation of evil habits by children. 'He that findeth a wife 
findeth a good thing.' 'A good wife is above the price of rubies/ 
'A good husband is a strong wall of defense.' Mothers that are 
'keepers at home' and train their children properly reign as 
queens over their households. Worthy fathers, who provide 
home and comforts for those who rightfully depend on them, 
are princes in their families. The children of such parents grow 
up around them like olive plants. They 'rise up to call them 



National Prison Association Speech 175 

blessed;' they live to love and honor them, and very naturally 
become good, law-abiding citizens. Parents have access to the 
minds and hearts of their children before evil persons can reach 
them. They can enter right into their children's hearts through 
the open doors of confidence and love, and give directions to their 
thoughts, affections and lives at the very outset, but to make these 
lessons effectual they must be impressed by example. Parents 
themselves must live in daily practice of the virtues they teach 
by precept. 

"Children are apt to fall into the practices of their parents, 
and especially into their vices, whatever they may be, great 
or small. 

"Yes, preventive work should begin in the family. 

"Give us a nation composed of virtuous, intelligent, refined 
and industrious parents, who by precept and example teach these 
principles to their children, and we shall have little use for crimi- 
nal courts, prisons and reformatories. The streams that supply 
such institutions would be dammed, or rather dried up in a large 
degree. 

Orphans. — "But to say nothing of children of unworthy 
families, there are many who have been cast out upon the world 
— orphaned ones, waifs on the streets of our cities, who wander 
without aim or desire to avoid evil. What is to be done to pre- 
vent these from going wrong, even into criminal lives? 

"To save such children from suffering and from criminal 
practices, some suggest adoption into good families, and all agree 
that this is good as far as practicable. Indenture and apprentice- 
ships are also suggested and largely practiced with good results. 
Orphanages under various kinds of management are likewise 
fruitful of vast good. I earnestly commend each and every plan 
that will protect, educate and prepare for good citizenship chil- 
dren of this class. But I abhor, detest, despise and denounce 
the practice of confining orphan children in alms houses and on 
county farms, or working them in factories. 



176 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"Give the little fellows good companionship, decent, comfort- 
able quarters, clean beds and wholesome food. Smile on them, 
speak gently to them, and let sunshine into their souls. Teach 
them to have self-respect, hope and ambition. The family or the 
orphanage that fails to do these things is not worthy of either 
name. It is a stench and a nuisance in any community, not only 
failing to forestall an evil life on the part of the children, but 
actually preparing them for it. An orphanage should be made 
as near as possible like the very best regulated family; and in 
fact, should give the children better advantages in some things 
than the majority of families give their own children. They 
should blend with other good things the advantages of the best, 
appropriate schools, and fail not to include training in various 
trades and industries. Properly conducted literary and techno- 
logical schools for all classes of youths are potent factors in pre- 
ventive work. But many have passed the years of youth without 
proper training. As Dr. B. M. Palmer touchingly expressed 
in his opening prayer last evening, 'There are many whose char- 
acters were not formed under the same influences that made us 
comparatively virtuous and good/ 

"We must do preventive work among the homeless wanderers, 
the grossly ignorant, the unemployed and the discouraged of 
older years. Many such there be who have not gone into crimi- 
nal lives, but are on the very verge. Hope has well-nigh fled 
them. Dark clouds of despair are gathering about them. They 
feel that opportunities are almost closed against them. Some 
are suffering from one or rrlore of these terrible realities. Others 
from others of them, and under these circumstances efforts are 
made to lure them into sin against God and society. Can nothing 
be done^to protect them?" 

Dr. Buckner further argued against allowing food to be given 
or cheap luncheons served in saloons on the theory that such 
luncheons tempted men to drink. "Would the saloon set up a 
free luncheon for any other purpose than to tempt men to drink ?" 



CHAPTER XXVI 

BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 

Sunshine, Shadow, Sunshine.— When we saw Buckner Or- 
phans Home last in 1894, it stood stately and erect in the sunshine 
of prosperity. There were more than five hundred acres of 
the best quality of Texas black land, plenty of live stock, good 
barn, schoolhouse, sanitorium, wooden buildings for more than 
one hundred boys, new pressed-brick building with four floors, 
giving room for four hundred girls, artesian well, and no debt. 
The Home's General Manager could never for a moment content 
himself to stand still. His ideals are summed up in that one 
word, "Forward." 

Forward. — After installing the artesian well, it was not a year 
till a model steam power and electric light plant was installed 
at a cost of $6,000. Also at about this time the A. J. Holt 
museum of more than one thousand valuable specimens became 
the property of the Home. It was presented to the Home by Dr. 
Holt and was valued at more than $5,000. Rare specimens they 
were, gathered in the Orient and elsewhere. It has since been 
added to and is now (19 14) worth above $8,000. 

Sunshine Family. — Along in those golden days Mrs. A. F. 
Beddoe was mother to more than two hundred happy girls. They 
were being trained in classes — a class in housekeeping and lawn 
adornment, another in the science and arts belonging to the culi- 
nary department, another in the cutting, fitting and making of 
garments, another in laundry work and in ironing, and so on. 

A nursery department of about thirty small children was 
under the eye and motherly hand of Mrs. M. A. Black. 

The boys were occupying wooden buildings on their own 
lawn, and had for their mother good "Aunt Sallie" Britton. 

177 



178 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Aunt Sallie taught them to make their own beds, scrub their own 
floors, keep their own rooms, wash their own clothes, and aid 
in the making and mending of them. The boys, in addition, had 
field work and shop work. Good "Aunt Sallie" is still (1914) 
a matron in the Home. She now has charge of the nursery 
department. She has helped in the rearing of more than five 
thousand orphan children. 

Mrs. R. B. Dallas was matron in the sanitarium department 
in those days. She had not many sick, sometimes none. 

There was a department of pharmacy under the supervision 
of Dr. A. F. Beddoe, the Home physician. Dr. Beddoe had a 
small class of boys in training to be pharmacists. 

The farm work with its "field boys" was under the super- 
vision of Mr. E. W. McKnight. 

The machinery, including the great 140-horsepower boiler 
and 64-horsepower engine, deep well pump, electric light plant 
and other valuable machinery, was under the care of Mr. Joe 
D. Buckner, assisted by a class of boys. 

This paragraph is from Dr. Buckner's report in 1896: "The 
question is sometimes asked, do the children never suffer for 
food or clothing? The question is an offense, though doubtless 
asked in kindness. Suffer ? No ! How could we allow them to 
suffer? Everything needed to keep them from suffering we 
buy, whether there is a dollar, or the promise of a dollar, and 
buy in a way not to embarrass the Board or encumber the prop- 
erty." "There will never be anything but sunshine on Buckner 
Orphans Home," prophesied Deacon S. F. Sparks of Waco, who 
gave of his own means and gave free of charge much time trav- 
eling in the interest of the Home in those days. All the people 
believed as did Brother Sparks. 

To Celebrate Sixty-fourth Birthday. — "To celebrate the 
sixty-fourth anniversary of my birthday (January 3, 1897), then 
fast approaching, I bargained for the place I had rented years 
previous for the opening of the orphan work with three children. 



Buckner Orphans Home 179 

I bargained for it at the very moderate price of $6,000, and 
assumed personally the entire responsibility of paying for it, so 
as to embarrass neither the Board nor any person whomsoever. 
The transfer was made on the fourth of January, as the third 
fell on Sunday. I collected $500, borrowed $2,500 on my per- 
sonal assets, and paid $3,000 cash, executing a note to the vendors 
for $3,000 and received a deed to the property made to Buckner 
Orphans Home, retaining no sort of claim to protect myself. 
At the end of six months all was paid." — Dr. Buckner's report, 
1897. This is the property known for many years as the "Buck- 
ner Home Annex," where all children are detained ten days 
before bringing to the Home proper in the country. 

Shadow. — Deep as a pall of night, it fell on the Home, Janu- 
ary 15, 1897, "a terrible holocaust, consuming the boys' build- 
ings, all their winter clothing, bedding and much other valuable 
property, amounting in all to $20,000. But far more deplorable 
was the death of seventeen children who perished in the flames, 
and later on, three others as a result of injury received during the 
fire. When the sad news spread abroad, prompt and liberal con- 
tributions for relief came spontaneously, sufficient, except for 
temporary buildings. 

"For some years previously I had been asking for money 
to build the boys a commodious and safe brick house such as our 
girls have, and by which they were saved from the ravages of 
the angry flames. But it seemed to require the great fire to 
arouse the people to a realization of the necessity for such a 
building. Then for the first time contributions for this purpose 
began to come in." — Report, 1897. 

The Awful Hour. — The following excerpt is taken from 
Buckner Orphans Home Annual of 1897, written by Dr. 
Buckner : 

"The wires have flashed the sad news of the burnt orphanage 
all over the continent and across the great waters, and news- 
papers have published accounts of it, more or less accurate. 



180 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"The scene will never fade from my troubled, astonished 
vision. I could smell the burning flesh of our dear ones before 
the fire died down sufficiently to reveal their charred remains. 
Weeping ones were to be comforted. Bereaved mothers were 
to be strengthened. Mrs. Beddoe, my own daughter, the girls' 
matron, would first turn to Mrs. Sallie Britton, the boys' matron, 
then turn to me to see how I was bearing it. Mrs. Britton had 
three of her own children to perish in the flames. Mrs. Beddoe 
tried to comfort her. I had no time to sink down or hesitate. 
To weep I dared not. To Mrs. Beddoe I said: 'Be quiet, my 
daughter, I am all right. Your father's shoulder's are broad and 
his heart is stout. He can stand under it. The living are to 
be cared for/ 

"'Father Buckner/ said the broken-hearted Mrs. Britton, 
'Nobody can do me any good but God. Kneel down and pray. 
All you children who are Christians, kneel down and pray, and 
all who are not Christians, kneel down and pray, too/ 

"What a crowd on their knees in tears and sobs and prayers ! 
The outbursts of grief from the mother whose three children had 
perished were subdued. But in another room was Mrs. M. A. 
Black, nursery matron, whose son had perished while she was 
with the little ones in the nursery. Her grief was deep and 
unutterable. I could not speak to her. To look at her, even the 
next day, was enough to bear. This is all I can tell. I did not 
want a bite of food for days, and only ate for strength to perform 
duty." 

The burning of the boys' building cast a shadow over all the 
South. 

A New Large and Safe Building. — "For the construction of 
such a house, I bought 1,000,000 brick, now (November, 1897) 
nearly all paid for, also the heavy timbers with sand and lime. 
The outer and partition walls have been built to the first overhead 
joists. This far the work is all paid for." — Report, 1897. 

This boys' building stands the same dimensions of the girls' 



Buckner Orphans Home 181 

building. It was finally completed and all paid for. But, like 
the girls' building, it was erected in time of great financial stress. 
Before it was all paid for the great campaign was on to raise 
$100,000 for Baylor University ; besides, our people were at war 
with Spain. But by the time the Baptist General Convention in 
1900 emerged from its six years of storm, Buckner Orphans 
Home was fully out of the shadows and in the golden sunlight 
with property valued at more than $200,000, and no debt. 

Rev. P. M. Murphy, Preacher. — Rev. P. M. Murphy was 
educated at Buckner Orphans Home. His fruitful work in dif- 
ferent fields for many years is an open book. During the years 
1 888- 1 903 he was the preacher for Buckner Orphans Home in 
the capacity of assistant pastor. All the readers of this book 
know that Dr. Buckner was necessarily much afield, but no finer 
young man in the State could be found than this P. M. Murphy, 
Pastor Buckner's assistant. Said Pastor Buckner: "The state 
of morals and religion is fine, far above the average. Here is 
a wonderful field for mission and Sunday School work, and 
God's signal blessings rest upon it. We have a fine corps of 
literary, music and Sunday School teachers. Rev. P. M. Mur- 
phy's labors in the pulpit and in the Sunday School have been 
very fruitful of good. For eighteen years I did all the preaching 
myself, but the last two years I have been greatly relieved." 

How the Children are Employed, igoi. — The following 
graphic picture of what was doing in the Home was written by 
Miss Lula Mae Whitehead, and was published in "The Western 
Baptist," May 9, 1901. Miss Whitehead grew up in the Home 
and was familiar with the details in all the departments. For a 
term of years she has been Dr. Buckner's bookkeeper and private 
secretary. Her work is valuable beyond price. Hear what 
she says: 

"All house-cleaning, cooking, sewing and washing is done by 
the girls, under the supervision of the matrons. There are three 
matrons — girls' matron, boys' matron, and nursery matron. 



182 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"The field work is done by the boys, aided by our farmer, 
who works with them. They have planted this year, May, 1901, 
eight acres in garden, seventy in corn, and are planting fifty acres 
in sorghum, millet, and cotton on land that was in oats, but 
destroyed by bugs. Besides this, they have plowed our thirty- 
five acres of orchard and have planted about four acres in musk- 
melons and watermelons. The hayfield comprises eighty-five acres. 

"The girls' work is divided, each having a certain piece of 
work, and usually keeping it till she is transferred to the kitchen. 
The kitchen week is filled by six girls, two large ones, two next 
size, whom we call middle size, and two smaller, who are the 
'fire girls.' They all go into the kitchen on Saturday evening and 
come out the next Saturday. No work is allotted to girls from 
eight to ten years of age, except by the help of large girls they 
do the yard-cleaning. 

"A day is passed thus : The kitchen girls rise at four o'clock 
in order to have breakfast prepared in time. A bell rings at 
five, called the 'rising bell.' At half past five it rings again, called 
the 'first bell,' which means for all who have work in the dining 
room (about twenty-five of them) to get the tables prepared for 
breakfast. At six another bell rings, called the 'last bell/ when 
all repair to the dining room. At the ringing of this 'last bell' 
the boys and girls form into lines in their respective corridors, 
the smallest in the lead, and march in single file to organ music, 
and fill nine tables. 

"Breakfast is over at about seven o'clock, when they leave 
the dining hall, dividing and going to their special work, some 
to making beds, some to sweeping corridors, yards and steps. 
Some clear up the dining room and kitchen, some begin to pre- 
pare dinner, while others get the smaller children ready for 
school. 

"At half past eight the house is cleared up. Then those 
whose day it is to wash begin. It is school time, and all who 
go on that half day are off, leaving the unfinished work, if any, 



Buckner Orphans Home 183 

to those who do not attend school in the forenoon. Likewise, 
the forenoon pupils stay at home in the afternoon and attend to 
whatever needs to be done. 

"We have three teachers: the primary teacher, teaching 
three grades; the intermediate, teaching two, and the principal, 
four. The half-day attendance at school has proven the more 
successful because the children do not become so tired and are 
not absent from school any, unless in cases of emergency. We 
have a fourth teacher for under ages. 

"At half past eleven o'clock, a first bell is rung for all to be 
prepared for dinner, which comes at twelve. At half past one, 
we have school again, the morning pupils remaining at home and 
the evening pupils going to school. School is dismissed at half 
past four. 

"At half past five, a 'first bell' rings, calling all to prepare 
for supper, which comes at six, in summer at seven. After sup- 
per some are engaged in study, some promenading the walks, 
others talking or singing or swinging. At nine, comes bedtime. 
The children have as much time for play as any children, enjoy 
it as much, and are as happy as can be." 

S. C. Bailey's Vision. — On October 29, 1903, appeared in 
"The Baptist Standard" the following from the pen of Rev. 
S. C. Bailey: 

"My vision grows, and the more I look the more I discover. 
I see this man of God gathering the children from all parts of the 
Union, and as they come and go, placing his hand upon their 
heads and asking God's richest blessings on them. His name is 
R. C. Buckner, founder of Buckner Orphans Home, and presi- 
dent of the greatest convention that meets on this earth. Fathers 
and mothers look down from the City of God and say, 'Blessed 
he who cares for our little boys and girls while our bodies sleep.' " 

Report of Auditing Committee, 1900. — We insert the follow- 
ing report in full as it deals with the finances from the beginning. 

"Waco, Texas, November 8, 1900. 



184 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"To the Board of Directors of Buckner Orphans Home : We, 
your auditing committee, have examined the annual report, 
books and vouchers of R. C. Buckner, General Manager of Buck- 
ner Orphans Home, for the past year and we find them correct 
in every particular. 

Amount collected $36,890.61 

Amount expended 36,090.80 

Leaving balance on hand 799-8 1 

"We beg further to state for the information of the Board 
and the public that we have examined carefully the records of the 
Board from the beginning, and have also examined the history of 
the Home (especially with reference to all financial matters) 
from the origin to the present time, and from the facts prominent 
in the official records we take pleasure in saying that the Home 
originated from the suggestions, requests and efforts of Brother 
R. C. Buckner, the present General Manager. 

"The first lands were bought and buildings erected, including 
schoolhouse, furniture, stock and farming implements, by his 
own efforts through a number of years. Up to the time there 
were sixty-five orphan children in the Home, Brother Buckner 
did all of this without one cent of salary or remuneration 
whatever. 

"We also find from the records that during the earlier years 
of the institution his personal contributions exceeded the receipts 
from $150 to $350 per year, and that in each instance he squared 
the books by his own personal contribution. In addition to this, 
we have seen cancelled notes amounting to $17,499 that he car- 
ried in bank personally for the benefit of the Home. This sum 
represents money that he borrowed to secure the land now belong- 
ing to the Home. He gave at different intervals, personally, of 
his own means in the early years of the institution, several 
thousand dollars. 



Buckner Orphans Home 185 

"We have seen the original mortgage on his own private prop- 
erty for $1,500, which he used in paying for land for the Home. 
And we have seen from the deeds to the Home that the titles vest 
in the Home itself, and that Brother Buckner, nor any other 
mortal man, has a claim on any part of the property, and the 
charter forbids any mortgage lien being placed on the property 
of the Home. We find Brother Buckner has always given his 
personal notes and mortgages on his own private property to 
cover expenditures made for the Home, and if he had died before 
the notes were paid, his family would have lost the amounts 
unless reimbursed by voluntary contributions. They could not 
touch one cent of the property of the Home. 

"In reviewing the history of the Home, we regard the business 
management of Brother R. C. Buckner as a marvel of accuracy 
and financial skill. As to accuracy, the records show that the 
reports, books and vouchers have been audited each year from 
the very first to the present, and found absolutely correct in every 
instance. We further state that no man within our knowledge has 
thrown his life and energy more thoroughly and unselfishly into 
any work, and there is no living man who has developed the 
strength and power in the work of providing for homeless 
orphans that he has. His unselfish work commands our highest 
respect and commendation. The self-sacrificing spirit he has 
exhibited all through the management of the Home and the finan- 
cial obstacles he has had, and still has, to encounter, have been 
borne with a Christian spirit and with a firm confidence in God 
to provide for the homeless orphans under his charge. 

"We do most earnestly and prayerfully commend the Home 
to the Baptist brotherhood of Texas and the world at large as 
well worthy of their cooperative support, and we particularly 
ask that the Baptist churches of Texas regularly contribute to 
its support. Brother Buckner has had a load on his shoulders 
and anxiety in his heart for years, and nothing but his unbounded 
confidence in God has made 'the yoke easy and the burden light/ 



186 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"We implore the Baptists of Texas and other people to wake 
up to their duty to the Home, and ask them to help Brother 
Buckner carry this burden. They can do it by regular contribu- 
tions. It is a most worthy work and God's approving smile 
is on it. 

"Come to the help of the Home. By so doing, you will expand 
the usefulness of Brother Buckner and bring happiness to the 
homeless orphans under his charge. May God put it into the 
hearts of all to do their full duty to this charitable institution 
is our prayer. (Signed) W. N. Griffith, J. N. Rayzor, Auditing 
Committee." 

"The above report was, on motion, adopted by unanimous 
vote. W. N. Griffith, Secretary of the Board of Directors." 

"Audited Every Year. — Every year from the beginning the 
books and vouchers of Dr. Buckner have been passed under the 
eye of an auditing committee and by it approved. It would tax 
our space to publish in full all of these reports. A few of them 
are here appended. 

Report, 1902. — "Waco, Texas, November 6, 1902. To the 
Board of Directors of Buckner Orphans Home: We, your com- 
mittee appointed to audit the books and vouchers of* Dr. R. C. 
Buckner, General Manager, beg to report that we have gone over 
the work and found the books and vouchers correct in every 
particular, and we desire especially to commend Miss Lula Mae 
Whitehead for the neatness and exactness with which she has 
kept the books. Respectfully submitted, W. F. Rupard, R. N. 
Hill, Jno. T. Wofford." 

"The above report of the Auditing Committee was adopted 
by unanimous vote of the Board of Directors. W. N. Griffith, 
Secretary." 

Report, 1903. — "Dallas, Texas, November 5, 1903. The re- 
port of R. C. Buckner, General Manager of the Home, was read; 
the books and vouchers were examined by a committee of audit- 



Buckner Orphans Home 187 

ors, and they, with the report, were, on motion, adopted. W. J. 
Rupard, President; W. N. Griffith, Secretary." 

Statement, ipod. — ''We, the Board of Directors of Buckner 
Orphans Home, make the following report: We find from the 
report of Dr. R. C. Buckner, General Manager of the Home, 
which report was audited by the Auditing Committee, that Dr. 
R. C. Buckner started the fiscal year with a debt of $5,689.54. 
He has received for all purposes $64,552.54, paid out for all pur- 
poses $60,846.54, leaving a balance on hand of $3,706.00. This 
was donated for a particular purpose, and only can be used as 
specified. 

"We find Dr. Buckner is personally responsible for $23,876.00 
consisting of notes, contracts and accounts, which he will have 
to pay personally unless liberal contributions come in. The needs 
of the Home are growing larger and larger every year. He has 
a family of six hundred to be provided for, and nothing but 
liberal contributions will accomplish it. One hundred thousand 
dollars should be contributed this year. 

"The Board for several years has voted Dr. Buckner an 
annual salary of $2,500, but he has never accepted over $1,500. 
This year he gave $1,579.91 to the Home, giving all of his salary 
with $79.71 additional. Dr. Buckner's anxiety of mind has 
been great, and sometimes he has almost been crushed as he 
struggled with the large financial responsibilities, but his abiding 
faith in God and the good people of Texas has made him feel 
that the large family under his charge would be provided for. 
He has assumed great financial responsibilities with an abiding 
faith and confidence that the good people of Texas would not see 
him carry the burden alone. He has prayed and struggled, and 
at times the future looked gloomy, but a silver lining would be 
seen through the clouds and he would be encouraged. God has 
blessed his work. His unselfish and untiring efforts in the man- 
agement of the Home is sublime. 

"He has shown a superior executive ability that cannot be 



188 Life of R. C. Buckner 

excelled. The management of the Home in every particular has 
received the full endorsement of the Board. His pure Christian 
character is a beacon light leading others to a higher and nobler 
Christian life. 

"Brethren, we lay the Home at the door of your hearts ; will 
you turn back on it? We say no, you will not. We ask you to 
give to the Home as God has prospered you. We hope to receive 
many large contributions to the Home. You could not make a 
better investment. God's approving smile is upon it. 

"We thank you for past liberal help, and ask that you 
double your efforts in behalf of the Home. Take it to your 
hearts, pray for it, help it, and God will bless you. By helping 
the Home you will bring joy and gladness to the six hundred 
who are dependent on you. This cause is worthy of your confi- 
dence and help, and we hope that you will not turn a deaf ear 
to its appeal for help. May God open your hearts and pocket- 
books is our prayer. — Board of Directors, Buckner Orphans 
Home. Attested to by W. N. Griffith, Secretary of Board of 
Directors." 

Report, 1913. — "We, your Auditing Committee, beg to report 
that we find the books and vouchers, representing the work as to 
the finances of Buckner Orphans Home for the fiscal year, 
November 7, 1912, to November 7, 1913, accurate and correct and 
correspond with the financial exhibit in the annual report of 
R. C. Buckner with the receipts and disbursements as itemized 
upon the books. W. N. Griffith, P. W. Thorsell." 

"The Board of Directors of Buckner Orphans Home, Novem- 
ber 19, 1913, made the following resolution: Resolved, By the 
Board of Directors in regular annual session that we adopt the 
report of the Auditing Committee, and also the report of Dr. 
Buckner. W. N. Griffith, Secretary." 



CHAPTER XXVII 

IN GALVESTON AFTER THE STORM 

"Texas will have greater cause than ever to love and revere 
Dr. Buckner and his institution when it is known that he has 
added to his family a hundred helpless victims rescued from the 
storm. The heart of this State is throbbing towards Galveston 
now, and whoever renders a good service to this stricken city 
will be honored by the State." 

The foregoing paragraph is copied from the "Galveston 
News" of September 13, 1900. The storm occurred on Satur- 
day, September 8. 

Communication Cut Off. — It was two days after the storm 
before word reached the outside world — two days of trying 
anxiety to all civilized peoples. 

On Monday, September 10, flying rumors began to flash over 
the wires: "City wiped out," "Dead at least four thousand," 
"Dead five thousand," "Not less than eight thousand dead," 
"Eight thousand dead and $20,000,000 property destroyed." 
These were reports brought to Houston by messengers who came 
through fifty miles of mud and water, exhausted and almost 
paralyzed with terror and grief. 

The wires were all down for fifty miles out. There was only 
one wire leading out from Houston the night of the storm, and 
it went down shortly after midnight. 

Galveston, Thirty-eight Thousand. — The population of Gal- 
veston before the storm was about thirty-eight thousand. It was 
cosmopolitan in character. Every State in the Union and many 
other parts of the globe had relatives or friends there. The world 
was wild for news. Within the stricken city the anxiety of the 

189 



190 Life of R. C. Buckner 

survivors to communicate with outside friends is not to be 
described. Hours were ages. Fabulous prices were offered to 
any who would carry messages. 

Two Tugs to Houston. — On Monday, two days after the 
storm, two tugs carried a thousand messages to Houston with 
request that they be forwarded by wire. Hundreds of men had 
worked all day Sunday straightening posts and repairing wires. 
By night there was connection by wire between Houston and St. 
Louis. All night Sunday night and all day Monday ten thousand 
people all over the United States were trying to send messages 
to Houston, claiming they had friends in Galveston. It was 
impossible. Neither was it possible to send out from Houston 
the messages brought by the tugs. The wires could not do a 
tithe of the business demanded. 

Rush to Houston. — There was a wild rush of people to Hous- 
ton. They were from over Texas and many states. Every 
train was crowded, and the Bayou City groaned because she 
could not feed or house her guests. 

Word from Galveston. — A newspaper man named Richard 
Spillane from Galveston- reached Houston Monday after the 
storm. He reported: 

"The city is in ruins and the dead will probably total 10,000. 
Galveston has been wrecked by a tempest so terrible that words 
cannot describe it, and by a flood that turned the city into a 
raging sea. The weather bureau records show that the wind 
attained a velocity of eighty-four miles an hour. Then the meas- 
uring instruments blew away, so it is impossible to tell what 
was the maximum. About noon, Saturday, it became evident 
that the city would be visited with disaster. By three o'clock 
the waters of the gulf and bay met, and by dark the entire city 
was submerged. The light plants were flooded and the city was 
in darkness. To go into the streets was to court death. The 
wind was at cyclonic velocity. Roofs, cisterns, telegraph poles 
and walls were falling, and the noise of wind and crashing build- 



In Galveston After the Storm 191 

ings was terrifying in the extreme. It was an experience of 
agony seldom equalled. When people who escaped death went 
out at daylight next morning, they were appalled. I looked out 
and saw eight bodies, four in one yard. Blocks and blocks of the 
business portion were without a vestige of habitation. Ruins 
were piled in pyramids." 

Dr. Buckner at Durant. — Dr. Buckner was at Durant, Indian 
Territory, now Oklahoma, attending a religious gathering at the 
time of the Galveston storm. The meeting at Durant had for 
its object the forming of a basis of cooperation between Northern 
and Southern Baptists in Indian Territory. In this work it was 
successful. The weather was ominous. As far north as Durant 
rain fell in torrents and the wind reached an alarming velocity. 
A distressing uneasiness lay upon every heart. There was no 
satisfactory news from the Gulf Coast. On Monday, Dr. Buck- 
ner bade the Durant Conference adieu, saying he felt sure there 
was disaster somewhere. At Dallas he halted and found Dallas 
distressed for want of news. 

Dr. Buckner at Houston. — Tuesday flying rumors said that 
Galveston was wiped out of existence, and very soon Dr. Buck- 
ner and his friend, Saunders, were speeding southward. They 
reached Houston and Galveston that same day, Tuesday. The 
storm was Saturday and Saturday night preceding. 

At Houston they found a train ready to speed toward Gal- 
veston. Surging crowds were mad to board the train, and no 
man could do that without a pass. The mayor of Houston, Hon. 
S. H. Brashear, had been pressed for passes until he could endure 
it no longer and had gone home. His secretary did not know 
what to do with the crowd. Scores and hundreds were clamor- 
ing for passes. Men claimed that their families were in the 
wrecked city. Mothers were wild to search for their sons. Some 
demanded passes on humanitarian pleas, to help save life. 

Dr. Buckner sought a phone and called up the mayor, and 
was readily granted passes for himself and friend. 



192 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Off for Galveston. — The train was under the supervision of 
General Mabry of the United States Army. All went well till 
within about three miles of the bay. Here was mud, water and 
debris everywhere. The train halted. The railroad track was 
covered. General Mabry ordered: "Every man of you, get out 
of this car and get a spade and work!" 

Dr. Buckner and his friend sat still till the coach was empty. 
Then they stepped out quietly on the opposite side from the 
crowd. General Mabry was a special friend of Dr. Buckner and, 
recognizing his mission, made no objection. 

At that instant a farm wagon came along, headed towards 
the bay. Dr. Buckner and his friend boarded it. Instead of a 
body the wagon had only a frame and a long plank that pro- 
jected out behind, and on the projecting end of this plank the 
Doctor seated himself. It could not be called a comfortable seat. 
The plank sprang down and up at every jolt of the wagon, and 
his shoes and trousers were soon covered with water and mud 
beyond recognition. After an hour they were at the bay front. 
Here was a sea captain in a lighter searching for his lost son, 
and greatly distressed. The young man had been out in a boat 
during the storm and was doubtless lost. 

"We have not seen him," replied Dr. Buckner. 

Sea captain: "Who are you?" 

"R. C. Buckner and friend trying to get to Galveston to 
save life." 

Then the sea captain ordered his lighter to carry them to 
his ship, which was anchored in deep water, and ordered the ship 
to cross them over to the island. The Dallas "Times-Herald" 
reporter, who went to Galveston on the same train with Dr. 
Buckner, wrote to his paper: 

"The first arrivals from the mainland were greeted almost 
as angels from heaven. Men, women and children crowded 
around and all asked, 'Are efforts being made to assist us ?' And 
what a sight met the gaze of the first visitors ! They had antici- 



In Galveston After the Storm 193 

pated a scene of carnage and destruction. But no one expected 
to see so many dead bodies floating on the waves, lying on the 
sands and piled in the debris. Every street was congested. The 
wounded and destitute were crowded in buildings that were still 
standing, and all seemed to be in a dazed condition." 

But Dr. Buckner was in the city before the news reporters. 
They had to stop and work clearing the railroad of debris. He 
was present at the first gathering of the relief committee and at 
its organization. 

Boy Rescued. — Dr. Buckner found lodging in a hotel that 
was crowded with storm victims. Walking out, he discovered 
on driftwood a boy about ten years old, whom he rescued. After 
giving the child relief, he asked: 

"Who are you, my son?" 

"My name is Victor Albertson." 

"Where are your parents?" 

"Dead! The house we were in was a three-story brick. 
When it fell I jumped out at a window in the third story. It 
didn't kill me and I got on this raft and floated all night. I 
just held on to the raft and prayed." (Dr. Buckner sometimes 
uses this thought as a basis for talks : "I just held on to the raft 
and prayed.") 

"Who taught you to pray? Were your parents praying 
people ?" 

"No, sir. They never prayed. I learned to pray in the little 
Mission Sunday School." 

The boy was brought to Buckner Orphans Home and cared 
for. Many times afterwards has Dr. Buckner remarked on the 
good being done in the Mission Sunday School. Teaching this 
child to pray he considered a fine argument in favor of such 
schools. Later this boy went out into the world to do for him- 
self. For some years he has not been heard from, and it is 
feared he has passed to his home beyond. 

Dr. Buckner found many orphan children. He gathered 



194 Life of R. C. Buckner 

them together and saw that they were clad and fed. They 
crowded about him. They pulled at his hands and garments, 
and wept, and he wept, and the onlooking public wept. He 
admitted into Buckner Orphans Home the entire family of the 
Galveston Rosenberg Orphanage and many others from Galves- 
ton at intervals. 

A Woman Helped. — At the hotel where Dr. Buckner was 
stopping was an old lady anxious to leave Galveston. She had 
been there through the flood and had experienced horrors till her 
nerves could bear no more. She had lost her trunk, which went 
with the house and family where she was boarding. The family 
belonged to the "Christian Scientists." This old lady would 
not remain with them, though they importuned her, telling her 
to trust God. They were lost and the old lady's trunk with them. 

She said to Dr. Buckner that she felt she must go away, and 
she had nothing but a postoffice money order for $17. She had 
tried to collect the order at the postoffice and could not. He 
went with her from bank to bank. Presently a gentleman in a 
bank saluted: 

"How are you, Dr. Buckner?" 

"Well enough myself, but I want to borrow some money so 
I can pay this lady's board bill and send her to Austin." 

"You can have the money, Dr. Buckner." 

The hotel bill was paid, the ticket bought and expense money 
put into her hands. No one could leave without a permit, so 
he secured one for her. All persons going aboard the ship were 
required to pass between two lines of soldiers, who stood with 
bayonets crossed over the passway. The old lady was passed into 
the steamer, and Dr. Buckner waved her "Goodbye." From the 
deck of the vessel she cried: 

"I can never live long enough to thank you, Dr. Buckner." 

"Thank God. It is He who has helped you, not I." 

Grand Old Man. — The following is from the "Galveston 
News" of September 13, 1900, five days after the storm: 



In Galveston After the Storm 195 

"No man has been busier comforting the grief-stricken people 
of Galveston than Dr. R. C. Buckner of Buckner Orphans Home 
in Dallas County. He leaves Thursday morning for his insti- 
tution with the homeless orphans of Galveston Orphans Home, 
which was wrecked by the storm. He has others besides these, 
and all together he will take one hundred. 

"What a grand old man Dr. Buckner is! I will take off my 
hat to him any day. I have known him for years, and there is 
not a nobler character alive. He got here Tuesday afternoon and 
lost no time in reaching his part of the work. And heaven 
knows there was none more important than that to which he 
assigned himself. The world ought to know of his work here/' 

Returning with the Orphans. — When Dr. Buckner was return- 
ing to Dallas, two men boarded the train at a way station and 
accosted him: 

"We understand that you furnished our mother with a ticket 
and assisted her to get away from Galveston. We have met 
you to express our most hearty thanks. We must more than 
reimburse you, and require that you command us at any time we 
can serve you." 

These gentlemen were among the most valued citizens of 
Dallas. They had made effort to reach Galveston but could not 
get passes at Houston. 

Referring to Dr. Buckner's work, the "Galveston News" said : 
"This tender expression of human sympathy is echoed the world 
over." It was. The editor of the "New York Herald" had a 
man in Dallas with instructions to take a picture of Dr. Buckner 
returning with his Galveston orphans. The picture was taken 
as they entered the annex department of the institution. This 
picture appeared in the "New York Herald" in connection with a 
graphic writeup of the tornado. 

Two and a half months after the storm, Dr. Buckner visited 
Galveston and secured other orphans, mention of which was 
made in the Galveston papers at the time. 



196 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Buckner Home Open Door. — Buckner Orphans Home ever 
kept its doors wide open to storm orphans. In the fall of 1886 
a destructive coast storm swept Sabine Pass and Johnson's Bayou, 
in which some were killed, others hurt and some children made 
orphans. Immediately Dr. Buckner sent a telegram asking that 
all children made orphans by the storm be sent to Buckner 
Orphans Home. However, no children were sent. The good 
people of the storm-swept section cared for all themselves. The 
"Home and Sunday School," published at Dallas, commented as 
follows : 

"This is a noble and timely offering of help. There could not 
be found in Texas a better place for those helpless little ones 
so sadly and suddenly made orphans." 

There was a storm at Sherman during the earlier days of 
that goodly city. One of the first men on the ground was R. C. 
Buckner, comforting and offering assistance. He told the people 
that a welcome at Buckner Orphans Home awaited all the 
orphans. 

At Wills Point also a cyclone wrecked the town. When the 
news reached Dallas, Dr. Buckner took the first train and was 
quickly there. The first object of human suffering to meet his 
eyes was a little girl weeping over her dead grandmother. The 
grandmother was put away and Dr. Buckner took the little girl 
and cared for her at Buckner Orphans Home. His watchcare 
over her did not cease till she was fairly well educated, grown 
and doing for herself. 

In 1893 occurred the terrible cyclone at Cisco, killing many 
people. Dr. Buckner wired, offering assistance. Mayor George 
W. Groves wrote him a nice letter of thanks in reply. But the 
good people of Texas sent prompt help. Cisco had more than 
enough, and generously sent Dr. Buckner a nice lot of clothing 
for his orphans. 

When the terrible earthquake destroyed San Francisco in 
1906, Dr. Buckner offered to care for the orphans, and one was 



In Galveston After the Storm 



197 



sent but never reached Buckner Orphans Home. It was kid- 
napped en route. Diligent inquiry was made, but the child was 
never found. 

There have been many instances of proffered help by Dr. 
Buckner to tornado orphans, and many have been cared for in 
Buckner Orphans Home. 




CHAPTER XXVIII 

ORPHANS HOME BOARD SURPRISED 

Orphans Home Board Surprised. — In a former chapter the 
statement has been made that the books and vouchers of R. C. 
Buckner, General Manager of the Buckner Orphans Home, 
passed under the eye of an auditing committee every year, receiv- 
ing its approval and also the approval of the Board of Directors. 
But on June 7, 1904, when he called this same Board together 
and presented an exhibit of the Home's assets, the Board de- 
clared : "We can but express surprise that the efforts of one man 
have secured such an amount of property." 

This exhibit was presented to the Board on June 7, 1904, 
which was the fiftieth anniversary of Dr. and Mrs. Buckner's 
marriage---their golden wedding anniversary. This indeed was 
the occasion of calling together the Board. 

The reader, too, will be "surprised." He will note that the 
estimates are low as compared with values ten years later, as, for 
instance, cattle at $20 a head and land $65 an acre. All of that 
land ten years afterwards was worth $200 per acre, exclusive of 
improvements. 

It will be noted that the grand total is placed at $279,020. 
When Dr. and Mrs. Buckner celebrated their sixtieth wedding 
anniversary the property of the Home was worth near $600,000. 



198 



CHAPTER XXIX 

CARING FOR THE SICK ORPHANS 

There were not many sick in the earlier years of Buckner 
Orphans Home. And considering the great numbers reared and 
educated, there never have been many sick. There is no more 
remarkable fact connected with Buckner Orphans Home than 
the continued good health of its inmates. We quote from Dr. 
Buckner 's report for the year ending November 7, 19 13 : 

"The average annual death rate for the past ten years (1903 
to 1913) has only been 2 1/6 per cent. This low death rate is 
still the more remarkable from the fact that we passed through 
one epidemic of measles and one of whooping cough among the 
twenty-eight to thirty babies. The fearful epidemic of menin- 
gitis that slew its scores all around, and even on adjoining farms, 
did not touch the Home. It appears that a special Providence 
watched over Buckner Orphans Home." 

The fact of the good health of the Home is accounted for 
by the fact of the location of the Home on a high, healthy prairie 
ridge, almost highest in Dallas County ; pure artesian water, plain, 
wholesome diet, careful regard for the laws of health, and, as 
Dr. Buckner suggests, the special Providence of God. 

But of course there have been some sick all along. To segre- 
gate these was an increasing necessity, both the safety of the 
well ones and the better care of the sick demanding it. At first 
rooms were set apart for the sick called the "sick rooms." But 
as early as 189 1 a modern two-story frame cottage was built, 
which was later divided into seven rooms. The General Manager 
named this cottage "Bethshan" (the House of Rest). It was 
named in honor of the pleasant city Bethshan, near the River of 
Jordan, in ancient Palestine. The original Buckner Home "Beth- 
shan" was afterwards destroyed by fire, but the name "Bethshan" 

199 



200 Life of R. C. Buckner 

is still kept up. The one-story cottage, the home of the matron in 
charge of the aged and also the building in which the aged take 
their meals, is now (1914) "Little Bethshan," though all of the 
family speak of it simply as "Bethshan." 

The original Buckner Bethshan was built with a view to 
hospital work and future growth. It was then felt that the hos- 
pital problem was solved, at least for a term of years, and in his 
annual, 1892, the General Manager sent out this word: 

"Bethshan cottage, the hospital building, will afford enough 
room for the sick and convalescent after the family shall have 
increased to six hundred. At present two rooms are kept in 
readiness for the sick. All others are occupied as sleeping 
apartments." 

But a year later the entire building was set apart for the 
sick, and was fitted up with cooking and dining apartments and 
with bath room. The physician had his office on the Home 
premises, but he depended in the main on practice in the com- 
munity for his support. The Home had its own pharmacy. The 
larger children served as nurses and some of them became quite 
skilled. 

The Buckner Home Annex. — On January 4, 1897, Dr. Buck- 
ner bought for $6,000 a very fine property in Dallas and had it 
deeded to Buckner Orphans Home. He became personally re- 
sponsible for the payments until it was paid for. This property 
has since been known as the "Buckner Home Annex" and as 
"The Children's Hospital." It was the same property on which 
the Home in its beginning was opened with three children. Its 
location is the southeast corner of Junius Street and Haskell 
Avenue. 

It was immediately improved and set apart as a "Children's 
Hospital," "open to afflicted orphans at Buckner Orphans Home, 
and of other orphanages, and to all destitute children needing 
medical treatment." Physicians were permitted to place their 
private patients and destitute emergency patients there, subject 



Caring for the Sick Orphans 201 

to the approval of the management. No discrimination was made 
on account of church or creed. Spiritual advisers of patients 
chosen by parents or guardians were shown equal courtesy, as 
were competent members of the medical profession. If a patient 
on arrival, was not in proper condition respecting person or 
apparel, such condition was immediately corrected. After a 
patient was discharged, the room was disinfected and supplied 
with fresh bedding. 

The first child treated was Willie Hogan, who had not walked 
for eight years, but after a few months walked and was per- 
manently cured. The first matron in charge of the Annex was 
Mrs. J. D. Robnett, widow of the founder of Howard Payne 
College. Eminent physicians, who, at the beginning, and some 
of them for many years, rendered professional services free of 
charge, were Drs. J. M. Pace, E. J. Reeves, M. M. Newsome, 
S. E. Milliken, C. M. Rosser, A. F. Beddoe, J. B. Shelmire, 
R. H. Chilton, Scurry Terrell, G. W. M. Swain, E. J. Cary, 
G. M. Hackler, T. L. Westerfield (D.D.S.), J. M. Holden 
(dentist), William Thomas (dentist) and others. 

The Annex was under the same general management with 
the Home in the country. It was conducted as two separate 
departments, the Transfer Department and the Hospital De- 
partment. The Transfer Department received all children com- 
ing to the Home and kept them ten days and then transferred 
them to the Home proper in the country. This was done as a 
precautionary measure to protect the large family against dis- 
eases, the wisdom of which has been many times justified. The 
Hospital Department was unique, being exclusively for deformed, 
maimed and chronically afflicted orphans, where they received 
board, professional treatment and every needed care, free. 

Said Dr. Buckner (Annual, 1898) : "There is no institution 
like it so far as I know." Within a few weeks after its opening, 
an average of thirteen patients were receiving treatment. This 
average grew to forty and more. At one time as many as sixty- 



202 Life of R. C. Buckner 

five were receiving treatment. Orphan children were sent to 
this children's hospital from Juliette Fowler Orphans Home at 
Grand Prairie, St. Matthews Children's Home at Dallas, the 
Methodist Orphans Home at Waco, and others. Hundreds of 
afflicted and destitute orphans were treated and many perma- 
nently cured. After this hospital had been opened more than 
five years, Dr. Buckner could say: 

"Many surgical operations have been performed here, some 
of them of a very serious character, but all of them successful. 
As many as three have been on the operator's table on the same 
day. The services rendered by surgeons and other skilled spe- 
cialists during the past year would have cost at regular fee 
rates possibly $2,000." — Annual Report, 1904. 

Again : "Many a case of eye, ear and nose trouble has been 
successfully treated, hair lip relieved, club foot, crooked limb 
and other deformities corrected. Some little patients now lie 
there helpless on their beds, their little limbs encased in plaster 
of Paris, and are under constant treatment and nursing." — 
Annual Report, 1904. 

The Ministry of Healing. — In "The Baptist Standard," No- 
vember 7, 1907, appeared a communication written by Dr. 
Buckner, of which the following is an excerpt : 

"Our Lord, who shows His love for little children, is hon- 
ored in the healing art as practiced in the Children's Hospital. 
Hundreds have been treated here for many afflictions that re- 
quired gentle nursing and the skill of our best surgeons and 
specialists. It has always been open to all children who need 
such treatment, whether of Dallas, Fort Worth, Bonham, Beau- 
mont, Whitewright, or other places from which it has admitted 
patients. The past two years, 122 patients have been treated, 
47 of them surgical patients. One was the child of one of our 
best and most popular preachers, who said he would not take 
$15,000 for the benefit conferred on his child. Another was a 
boy whose mother could not pay hospital charges. (Many others 



Caring for the Sick Orphans 203 

were cited.) The Children's Hospital property is now (1907) 
worth $40,000. The rooms are well furnished. The operating 
room has the most modern table, and other splendid furniture. 
There are bath rooms, ward and private rooms, and the building 
is well furnished. 

"The Hospital grew till it had to be separated from the 
Annex, and the latter moved to its new quarters. It has been 
advertised all over Texas for years, and has been announced 
in the Southern Baptist Convention as the only Baptist hospital 
in America for children." 

We are not surprised that both the Baptist General Con- 
vention of Texas and the Southern Baptist Convention passed 
resolutions commendatory of this work. 

The year closing November 4, 1908, saw 86 cases treated 
in the Children's Hospital, the year following 86 cases. Shortly 
after this the Children's Hospital was temporarily closed, much 
to Dr. Buckner's regret, to give place to a contemplated better 
building. It is in his plans to build at an early day a modern 
fire-proof structure at the country site of the Institution. 

Tuberculosis Sanitorium. — Said Dr. Buckner in his Annual 
Report, 1910: "We sympathize with the sick but have tried to 
keep rid of the 'white plague/ Yet, after all, several cases of 
tuberculosis developed among the children, and the doctors were 
as emphatic in their demand as we were in our determination to 
protect the hundreds of healthy orphans by segregating the few. 
So one mile from this village of buildings (where the orphans 
and aged are cared for) we have opened a sanitorium for the 
better care, treatment and health of consumptives. The place 
is not beyond the two miles, inside of which no land the Home 
owns, or may hereafter acquire, can ever be sold or encumbered 
by debt. It is in plain view, on elevated ground, rolling and 
sodded with Bermuda grass. There stands a frame building of 
three rooms, a little barn, garden, poultry yard, a well, and six 
modern army hospital tents. And self-sacrificing is there. 



204 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"The dear afflicted ones live principally an outdoor life. 
They care for a hundred laying hens, a few turkeys, and milk 
two cows. The principal diet of the children is fresh milk and 
fresh eggs, though other suitable articles are added. They now 
occupy six tents, one sleeping in a tent. But each tent has an 
extra bed for others, as necessity may require." 

The tents were afterwards replaced by six new wooden 
shacks. The doctors took in the Sanitorium in their rounds and 
the children did well. At this writing (1914) the Sanitorium is 
closed. We have no tuberculosis children now, but all the build- 
ings and shacks stand ready for use, should cases develop. 

The following excerpt is copied from the Annual, 1912: 

"We challenge the world to show a better record. This record 
is the more remarkable when the fact is considered that we 
admit the sick and afflicted, and the aged, and the enfeebled. 
In the Cottage Homes for the aged, we have preachers and 
widows between 80 and 86 years old, some so feeble that their 
meals have to be taken regularly to their rooms. As to the 
children, we admit to our Relief Sanitorium some with tuber- 
culosis in their blood and bones. Be it remembered, however, 
that this department is a mile from where the children and aged 
ones live. It would be inhuman to have it otherwise. 

"Though examinations have been made by experts, there is 
not a case of pelagra, or hookworm, in any of the departments 
of Buckner Home, and there has not been, except in the Chil- 
dren's Hospital in the city, before its temporary suspension." 

At the time of this writing (1914) special rooms in the Boys' 
House and special rooms in the Girls' House are fitted up and 
kept in readiness for the sick. The local physician, Dr. J. H. 
Ryon, lives in one of the cottages of Buckner Home Village 
and within five minutes' walk of either the Boys' House or the 
Girls' House, or any of the cottages for the aged. 

"The Orphans Burying Ground. — The cemetery is one mile 
distant, in our own beautiful Vienna Park. The gravelly earth 



Caring for the Sick Orphans 205 

is deep, drained by the constructive hand of nature, and always 
dry. It is bordered on three sides by forest trees and smaller 
growth. Grapevines and rattan, held up by bough of tree and 
bush or shrub, display graceful entwinings, luscious fruit and 
red and brown berries. The black haw and the red, the sumach 
with its cone-shaped red clusters and variegated foliage, the 
fragrance of fresh, wild flowers in spring and summer, and the 
sweet notes of many birds that perch or flit about, make it a 
cheery spot. The grounds are enclosed by a substantial rude 
fence, and a graveled driveway and walks add to the convenience 
of getting about. White marble marked simply with the names 
of the little sleepers distinguish the graves. Little brothers, 
sisters and comrades, go at times and linger about. They often 
place dolls, toys, vases and flowers, shells and bits of broken 
ware, with childlike innocency, simplicity and love on the graves 
of their loved ones at rest. On Decoration Day, former inmates 
come with tokens of sweet memories and decorate the graves. 
"In the same enclosure rest the wornout bodies of aged 
preachers and widows who spent their last days in the Cottage 
Homes at this Institution of many departments of benevolence. 
In the forest about is a fitting lesson of all — a picture of the 
age and lives of those who lie buried there. The opening forest 
buds at springtime, the growing and maturing leaves in mid- 
summer, the sear leaf in the fall and the dry and fallen leaves 
in midwinter (returning to the dust from which they came), 
speak inaudibly but touchingly of the birth of the babes, the 
young lives that follow and fading, decrepit age that ends the 
earthly life of all. All these ages are represented in this sacred 
enclosure. 

"A sylvan park, a still retreat, 
Where guardian angels oft may meet 
And watch with tender, loving care, 
Dear orphan children buried there." 

— Annual Report, ipi 4. 



CHAPTER XXX 

CARING FOR THE AGED 

From the beginning of Buckner Orphans Home, surprises 
at intervals have all along been sprung by the management on 
the Board of Directors and on the public. It was a purchase of 
land, a valuable improvement or a colossal building, or mayhap 
it was an entirely new charity. The new charity features multi- 
plied till Buckner Orphans Home came to be styled "An Insti- 
tution of Affiliated Charities and Benevolence. ,, It was so 
styled "because of the variety of its relief work and its many 
departments." These were the great Institution proper for 
orphan children, the Buckner Half -Orphanage for children with 
one parent living and able and willing to pay a moderate sum 
for caring for the children, the Mothers' Building for mother- 
less babies, the cottages for the aged, the Buckner Home Annex 
in the city for temporary detention of all children coming to the 
Home, the Children's Hospital and the Relief Sanitorium for 
tuberculosis children, besides many helps morally, educationally 
and industrially given all children. All of these departments 
were under one management, in recognition of which the Board 
of Directors, November 19, 1905, on motion of W. J. Rupard, 
"unanimously elected R. C. Buckner to the combined office of 
President and General Manager." 

The first cottages for the aged were built in 1905. There 
were four of them built during that year. A great joy it was 
to Dr. Buckner when a good sister, Mrs. P. S. Ramsuer, of 
Paris, Texas, gave $3,000 in cash with which to begin this 
Christly work. For a long time Dr. Buckner had this work on 
his heart and had been praying to God about it. 

In an article that appeared in the "Dallas Times Herald," 
February 23, 1906, Dr. Buckner called this good work of caring 

206 






Caring for the Aged 207 

for the aged "A New Department at Buckner Orphans Home." 
Following we give an excerpt from that article : 

"'Cottage Homes for the Aged.' — Is a new department at 
Buckner Orphans Home, and yet it is authorized by its charter 
and has already been inaugurated by the appropriation of funds 
contributed for that specific purpose. There are now in readi- 
ness four neat, modern cottages just across the public road from 
the great buildings occupied by the orphans themselves. They 
have each a fifty-one-barrel cistern. The buildings are lighted 
with electricity, and each yard has its young shade trees, peach 
and plum trees, small garden, poultry yard, cow barn, etc. All 
these outside improvements are not completed as yet, but are 
under way. A widow with her son and daughter occupy a room 
in one of the cottages and will aid in planting and in other 
matters to get things ready. 

"A preacher who is 84 years old, and his wife, about 60 
years, occupy one of the cottages, and an excellent homeless, 
dependent veteran of 82 is to occupy a room in the same building. 

"The cottages are far enough away not to be disturbed by 
the orphan children, yet the children are near enough to cheer 
the aged by visits under proper restrictions and also to alternate 
by detail and be really helpful to the old folks without interfer- 
ing with their own school privileges and other benefits of the 
orphanage. As both are under the same management, they can 
be conducted without serious friction. 

"Two more cottages are ready to gratify some sweetly in- 
clined to deeds of philanthropy by furnishing a cottage. We 
can tell them what is needed. If anyone wants to add a cottage 
at a cost of $700 or $800, it shall be his or her blessed privilege. 
There is room for many such cottages and there are many de- 
pendent aged people. You know we must not take the children's 
bread and give them. The great apostle Paul said: 'As we 
therefore have opportunity let us do good unto all men/ And 
it is delightful to help the homeless aged as well as dependent 



208 Life of R. C. Buckner 

orphans. My countrymen, let us not live for self alone. — R. C. 
Buckner." 

The quotation following is from Dr. Buckner's Annual Re- 
port, 1905 : "Four excellent cottages as homes for the aged 
people are nearing completion. The first will shelter Elder E. B. 
Eakin and his wife. He is one of our veteran preachers, 83 
years of age. The Cottage Homes are not exclusively for 
preachers. * * * A few orphan children will be cared for in 
each cottage to cheer and help care for the aged. * * * Only 
the providence of God will set a limit to this work — Cottage 
Homes for the Aged." 

The distributing of some of the orphan children among the 
aged, and in other departments, proved to be a wise and very 
excellent arrangement. Note this excerpt from the Annual 
Report, 1906: 

"Several children are distributed among the Cottages for the 
Aged, to love and wait on them, some in 'Little Bethshan/ 
where the convalescent are cared for, and several are in City 
Annex and Children's Hospital." 

The Cottage Department for the Aged grew and greatly re- 
joiced the heart of the Institution's President and General Man- 
ager. The cottages filled up and others, knocking for admittance, 
had to be declined. Very sad indeed was it to decline any. 
What could Dr. Buckner do? He sent out this word to the 
thousands of God's people all over Texas and beyond : 

"There is room on the ground for many others, who desire 
to do so, to put up cottages for other lonely persons." 

And again, "More cottages are needed and there are grounds, 
water, electric lights and other conveniences in abundance. Some 
of the most pathetic letters in our files are from dear, homeless, 
old people whose applications were necessarily declined for want 
of room. Hear the voice of God in the mouth of the aged: 
'Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when 
my strength faileth.' How can the hearts of people turn from 



Caring for the Aged 209 

the homeless, sorrowing, suffering condition of afflicted, aged 
preachers and widows?" 

"Ye Did It Unto Me." — What worth have been those age- 
worn lives ? The scribe in the Golden City has the record. We 
will not retrace. Their ministries are known to the King and 
they sit at the King's table. And they wait on Jordan's bank 
till their High Priest shall dip his feet in the flood, then will they 
pass over. 

Do you see that very old man, lame, tall, with blue eyes and 
with silver hair and with long silver beard? That is Dr. J. M. 
Holden. He is a dentist and a crippled Confederate soldier. 
Fifteen years, while living at Wills Point, he did most all of 
the dental work in Buckner Orphans Home. Each annual visit 
required some weeks to go over the teeth of all the orphan 
children and all the matrons, extracting, cleaning, filling and 
doing plate work. This good work he did joyfully year by year 
without charge. When quite old, a home was offered him and 
a room in one of the cottages, with room for his dental chair and 
instruments, which he gladly accepted. He had food and rai- 
ment and good cheer. At length he fell asleep and his body 
was shipped to his daughter, Mrs. Dr. Belotte, at Wills Point, 
where it finds sepulture and rest. 

Contentment.— "Having food and raiment, be therewith con- 
tent," is a Pauline injunction, but it is not universally observed 
among either old or young. We especially make a wide margin 
of allowance to aged people. Large numbers of them are not 
wholly themselves because of nervous or other ailments. And 
yet, after the Cottage Homes had been in operation more than 
seven years, Dr. Buckner could send out this remarkable state- 
ment in his Annual Report for 1912: 

"Every one who has lived here has been well enough satisfied 
to return, if away for a while, or to express a desire to come 
back whenever circumstances should be auspicious. The wife of 
one who went back to die among her friends, often visits us. A 



210 Life of R. C. Buckner 

letter was received from her the other day full of pleasant ex- 
pressions as to their satisfaction and happiness while here. There 
has not been an exception to our knowledge." 

In every case, before an aged man or woman is received, 
an application blank must be filled out, returned and passed on 
by the management. The application blank, when filled out, 
gives specific information on the following points: Name, age, 
connubial relations, health, moral character, church relations, 
use of profanity, quarrelsome disposition, use of opiates or in- 
toxicants, fondness for children, nervousness, past occupation, 
strength to keep room or do light garden work. The applica- 
tion blank is accompanied by a physician's certificate as to health 
and by other testimonials as to character. One regulation is, 
"if he drinks whiskey or uses profanity, he cannot get in." 

After years of trial, Dr. Buckner published in 1912 the 
following statement: 

"The Department for the Aged is a gratifying success. All 
the rooms of six cottages (three rooms each) are full. Some 
of the aged are more or less 'cranky/ but each is permitted to 
turn his own crank without anybody furnishing oil for it or 
grist for it to grind. Several of the old people who have been 
here have died. One was a preacher, another a preacher's wife. 
One was a worn-down, homeless deacon and four were old 
Christian women." 

Cottage Prayer Meetings. — The writer will always recall with 
joy the many occasions when he has been permitted to be with 
those aged saints in their mid-week prayer meetings. They were 
held on Thursday afternoons, sometimes in one sister's room 
and sometimes in that of another. The Holy Spirit delighted to 
come into these meetings. There were songs, readings from the 
Scriptures, prayers and soulful talks. Oh, those talks, those 
words of cheer, those homilies on sustaining grace, on faith and 
on unfailing love! There were two aged preachers with long 
records of service behind them. 



CHAPTER XXXI 

BAPTIST WOMEN'S MISSIONARY TRAINING SCHOOL 

The Baptist Women's Missionary Training School came into 
existence in answer to a desire on the part of Christian girls in 
Buckner Orphans Home to take training. It was organized 
October 3, 1904, in Buckner Home Annex, Dallas, Texas. R. C. 
Buckner was its founder and first president. At the time of 
its organization there was no other similar school in the entire 
South. Some three years later, when the Baptist Women's Mis- 
sionary Union Training School was organized at Louisville, Ky., 
Dr. Buckner was glad to encourage it by the gift of $100. The 
Baptist Women's Missionary Training School of Texas "was 
born in the great, loving head and heart of R. C. Buckner," 
wrote L. R. Scarborough of the Fort Worth Seminary. 

The Training School found welcome and shelter in the 
Buckner Home Annex in Dallas, without money and without 
price. 

The purpose to establish such school was first announced in 
a full meeting of the Dallas Baptist Pastors' Conference, Sep- 
tember, 1904. Dr. Buckner made the announcement and the 
same was heard with joy. Pastor George W. McDaniel of 
Gaston Avenue Church (later of Richmond, Va.) moved the 
approval of the Conference. The motion was carried unani- 
mously. The devotional "Amen!" was heard in different parts 
of the room. Evangelist Doc. Pegues started the Doxology, 
"Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow." All joined and 
instantly the whole Conference was on the Mount of Trans- 
figuration. 

211 



212 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Organisation Services. — There were present at the Training 
School organization services, R. C. Buckner, J. B. Gambrell, 
George W. McDaniel, George W. Truett, T. J. Walne, A. N. 
Hall, B. A. Copass, L. W. Coleman, Mrs. Joel H. Gambrell, 
Mrs. R. C. Buckner, Mrs. George W. McDaniel and others. 

Dr. Buckner called the meeting to order and read Romans 
16:1-4: "I commend unto you Phebe our sister, who is servant 
of the church which is at Cenchrea; that ye receive her in the 
Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever 
business she hath need of you, for she hath been a succorer of 
many, and of myself also. 

"Greet Priscilla and Aquilla, my helpers in Christ Jesus, who 
have for my life laid down their own necks ; unto whom not only 
I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles." 

After reading, Dr. Buckner offered the following well-chosen 
remarks : "Paul would not have women chosen to preach, neither 
would we. But he regarded them as valuable witnesses for 
Christ and useful helpers in missionary work and the great 
work of the churches. He entrusted his epistle to the Romans 
to Phebe, a sister, and servant of the church at Cenchrea, and 
sent her with it into the great city of Rome. Truly this was a 
daring and fruitful missionary journey. But she went and 
risked her own life, as other Christian women did, and as others 
are now doing in heathen lands. Women were unselfish, heroic 
workers in church and on mission fields in the days of the 
apostles, and still are. But they have not had the encourage- 
ment and favorable opportunities they so richly deserve. Paul 
encouraged and commended them, and so should we. We should 
give them better facilities and opportunities for becoming trained 
workers. We send our young preachers to theological semi- 
naries. Why not have good training schools for Bible women, 
missionaries' wives and women missionary workers? I am glad 
there are such schools, and that we are here to organize another. 
I am glad of the enthusiasm of these brethren and sisters, who 



Women's Missionary Training School 213 

become members of the faculty. I am glad that three or four 
of our orphan daughters from the 'Home' are here as the first 
matriculants, and I suggest that we now proceed to organize. ,, 

The principle here announced by Dr. Buckner that women, 
though not ordained preachers, must be recognized as helpers 
in all gospel work and must be made efficient, remains the great 
foundation pillar of the Training School. 

Dr. T. J. Walne led in fervent prayer, invoking the perpetual 
presence and leadership of the Holy Spirit in the coming work 
of the Training School, and in the lives of all the holy women to 
be trained. 

After the prayer, Dr. Buckner was elected president of the 
Training School and Miss Viola Weaver was appointed to act 
as secretary and keep the records. 

As nominated by the president, a faculty was chosen as fol- 
lows: George W. McDaniel, A. N. Hall, T. J. Walne, J. B. 
Gambrell, George W. Truett, L. W. Coleman, Mrs. Joel H. 
Gambrell, Mrs. R. C. Buckner, Mrs. George W. McDaniel, Miss 
M. Bridges. By unanimous vote, Dr. Buckner was made one 
of the faculty. Later on there were some changes in the faculty. 
But there never was a time when it was not first-class in piety 
and efficiency. Among the instructors added within the next 
year or two were Mrs. M. J. Nelson, E. P. Aldridge, R. L. Cole, 
W. E. Brittain, J. W. English, W. A. Jarrel, J. W. Gillon, J. 
Frank Norris, W. A. Hamlett. 

After the Training School became a department of the South- 
western Baptist Theological Seminary at Fort Worth, it found 
shelter in one wing of the Seminary building, sojourning in that 
wing until its own magnificent new home was completed. 

Mrs. A. H. Newman was the first principal after the opening 
at Fort Worth. She was succeeded by Mrs. J. S. Cheek and 
Miss Christine Coffee, who conjointly looked after the welfare 
of the school. 

In 1913 Miss Mary C. Tupper became principal. Miss 



214 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Tupper is a daughter of the distinguished Dr. H. A. Tupper, 
many years corresponding secretary of the Foreign Mission 
Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, and sister to Dr. 
H. A. Tupper, Jr., secretary of the American Peace Forum. 
Miss Tupper is assisted by several devout lady specialists and 
by the able Seminary faculty. 

It is a pleasure to chronicle her estimate of the founder and 
first president of the Training School : "I revered Dr. Buckner's 
name before coming to Texas, and to reverence have added 
love and admiration since my adoption by this great state. ,, 

Wide Welcome. — Throughout the South, and especially in 
Texas, the coming of the Baptist Women's Missionary Training 
School met with welcome. At the meeting of the Southern 
Baptist Convention in Kansas City, May 15, 1905, on motion of 
M. P. Hunt of Missouri, the following endorsement was 
unanimously adopted: 

"Resolved, That in view of the work being done in the Baptist 
Women's Missionary Training School, located at Dallas, Texas, 
and now in successful operation, this Convention welcomes its 
coming, and sees in it the providence of God for forwarding the 
Kingdom. The increasing opportunities and demands for trained 
women in missionary activities, at home and abroad, make this 
work imperative." * 

It was known in the great Convention that Dr. Buckner was 
the founder and president of this school. It was also known 
that he was a pillar under the Texas Baptist Memorial Sani- 
tarium, then being planted at Dallas. How could he look after 
these important interests, when the great Buckner Orphans Home 
filled his head and heart? This question lingered in the minds 
of many. 

Some time after this, George W. Truett, of Dallas, was in 
Kansas City, assisting Pastor F. C. McConnell of Calvary 
Church in evangelist meetings. During his sojourn in that city, 
Dr. Truett was interviewed by the editor of the "Word and 






Women's Missionary Training School 215 

Way" concerning Baptist activity in Texas, when he made this 
statement : 

"The orphanage work led by Dr. Buckner has grown to tre- 
mendous proportions. Over 600 children are now being trained, 
and to this splendid property lands and buildings are being added 
every year. Tremendously engaged as he is, yet he finds time 
to give his heartiest and noblest help to every good work in the 
land." 

The wide welcome accorded the Training School by Texas 
Baptists deserves especial mention. The Southern Baptist Con- 
vention saw in it "the providence of God for forwarding the 
kingdom." What did Texas see? When the school had been 
in operation only about six weeks, the Baptist General Conven- 
tion at Waco passed the following : 

"Whereas, There has been established in Dallas, Texas, the 
Women's Baptist Missionary Training School for the training 
of young women who feel called of God to give their lives to 
mission work at home or abroad, and, 

"Whereas, This school is now in successful operation with 
an earnest and capable faculty, with seven consecrated young 
women in attendance and others coming ; therefore, 

"Resolved (1), That this Convention heartily recommends 
that our people pray for the success of this Training School. 

"Resolved (2), That we recommend to our Godly young 
women wishing to give their lives for special work for Christ 
along missionary lines, if it is possible for them to do so, to 
come to the Women's Baptist Missionary Training School at 
Dallas." 

At succeeding sessions of the Convention, warm endorse- 
ments were voted. Note this excerpt from report written by 
W. A. Hamlett, 1905, and adopted by the Convention at Dallas: 

"A little more than a year ago, Providence thrust upon the 
Baptists of Texas the Women's Baptist Missionary Training 
School, located in Dallas. * * * Any woman who loves God's 



216 Life of R. C. Buckner 

work may enter, regardless of denomination, or whether she is 
to give her life to foreign work or stay in the home land. The 
committee especially urges the Convention to seriously take this 
matter to heart, recognizing its worth." 

A committee consisting of J. H. Taylor, B. A. Copass, T. A. 
Moore, Mrs. J. H. Gambrell, F. M. Masters and Mrs. C. H. 
Briggs, presented a glowing report to the Convention in Waco in 
1906. It was unanimously adopted. An epitome is here 
presented : 

"This institution for doing good has come to us at an oppor- 
tune time. Though only two years old, the school has sent out 
efficient workers, among them one missionary to China and an- 
other to Mexico. The question of a domicile for the school 
has been solved by the benevolent department of Buckner 
Orphans Home. It has tendered the school a permanent home 
near Gaston Avenue Baptist Church and near the great Baptist 
Sanitarium. The course of instruction is open to the trained 
nurses free of cost. The Dallas Pastors' Conference, equal to 
the best among us, furnishes the faculty." 

The missionaries mentioned in the foregoing report as having 
gone out from the school were Miss Ida Taylor, Teng Chow, 
Shentung, China, and Mrs. May, who went as an independent 
missionary to Mexico. Others are filling good positions. One 
of them, Miss Kate Lacy, reared in Buckner Orphans Home, is 
teacher in the Government Industrial School at Middleton, Okla. 

Women Ardent Supporters. — The warm endorsement given 
the Training School by the Baptist Women Mission Workers 
of Texas calls for roseate eulogy. Witness this excerpt adopted 
by the sisters in annual session in Waco, 1904: 

"Means of preparation have been provided in the Baptist 
Women's Missionary Training School, recently opened in Dallas 
by that noble pioneer in every good work, our beloved and hon- 
ored Dr. Buckner. While others hesitated and doubted whether 
the time was ripe for the launching of this form of Christian 



Women's Missionary Training School 217 

training, he heard the plea of noble young women, anxious to 
better prepare for Christly service, and gave shelter and the 
prestige of his name and fame for benevolence to this new 
enterprise." 

The foregoing paragraph, adopted by the sisters, was written 
by Mrs. J. B. Gambrell. At this same meeting, the women 
arranged for one woman in each association in the State to give 
attention to furthering the interests of the Training School. 

At a meeting of the Baptist Women Mission Workers in 
Waco, 1906, a collection was taken for the Training School, and 
the following resolution offered by Mrs. R. F. Stokes of San 
Antonio was unanimously adopted: 

"Whereas, The call for trained women mission workers comes 
from foreign fields and home fields and from the most opulent 
and prosperous of our city churches ; therefore, let it be 

Resolved, That we affirm and renew our pledge of sympathy, 
our prayers and our financial support to this most worthy 
institution." 

The devotion of the sisters to the Training School continues 
till this day. In a letter to the writer, June 25, 19 14, Dr. L. R. 
Scarborough says : 

"The Baptist Women Mission Workers have been most faith- 
ful to the Training School. They have made it possible for a 
beautiful new house to be erected, which will accommodate 112 
students. They have cheered the hearts and strengthened the 
hands of many a 'little sister,' who, because of their aid, has 
been enabled to fit herself for the service her heart longed to do. 
With gratitude to our Heavenly Father who impressed His 
servant, the noble father of our school, with the importance of 
this great work, and with thankful hearts for the cordial co- 
operation of our sisterhood, we take heart and go forward." 

Given to Southwestern Seminary. — After two years of cred- 
itable work in Dallas it was thought wise that the Training School 
be given over to the Southwestern Baptist Theological Semi- 



218 Life of R. C. Buckner 

nary. Accordingly at a later meeting, with President R. C. 
Buckner in the chair, it was voted to offer the school to the 
Seminary. 

"It was only that this enterprise of matchless usefulness 
might come speedily into its own, that it was aligned with the 
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary," wrote Mrs. F. S. 
Davis, president of the Baptist Women Mission Workers of 
Texas. 

The school was accepted by the Seminary. Dr. Scarborough 
soon thereafter began planning for enlargement. At his sug- 
gestion, the women in session at Houston, 19 10, undertook the 
erection of a suitable building on Seminary Hill at Fort Worth, 
the Seminary having already moved from Waco to its new quar- 
ters on Seminary Hill. Mrs. R. F. Stokes was appointed to 
supervise the raising of funds for same. And at this writing 
an imposing building, costing near $120,000, is nearing completion. 

Speech at Breaking Dirt. — In September, 1913, just after 
Dr. Buckner's return from the Orient, he received the following 
from Dr. Scarborough: 

"Dear Brother: I rejoice in your successful trip and safe 
return, and write to convey request of Committee of Baptist 
Women Mission Workers for our Training School, and of our 
Seminary faculty, that you deliver the address at Breaking Dirt 
Exercises, October 1, 1913. The occasion will be the beginning 
of the Woman's Building for the Missionary Training School. 
We all want you to do this because of your connection with 
the Training School. The exercises will be at three o'clock in 
the chapel, and following the exercises the Breaking Dirt Service. 
Mrs. W. L. Williams will hold the plow, breaking dirt. Come 
and take dinner with our Seminary folks." 

Dr. Buckner stood erect. In his hand he held a large bouquet 
of beautiful American roses. Before him sat the Seminary pro- 
fessors and students, city pastors, J. C. Hardy, many ladies and 



Women's Missionary Training School 219 

laymen. His address was heard with the keenest interest. An 
epitome follows: 

"Were I a Burbank of wide experience and successful effort 
in developing and improving flowers and plants, I would say of 
this large bouquet of American roses, LaFrance and the Ameri- 
can Beauty: These flowers of unsurpassed beauty and charming 
fragrance have been developed from the old wild cabbage, red 
rose. 

"Were I a Thomas Alva Edison, I would point to homes and 
palaces and parks brilliantly lighted with electricity and say: 
Development is shown by the steps from the old tallow candle 
to the kerosene lamp, and then higher to the beautiful incandes- 
cent lights that turn darkness into daylight in home, palace, 
park and city. 

"Were I a Waterman, I would take in my hand an elegant 
fountain pen and would call attention to the old, old, goose quill 
that my teacher, skilled in pen making, pointed for me, then to 
the steel pen that followed, then to the easy gliding gold pen, 
and then to the elegant, convenient fountain pen now in use, 
and would say: This is development. 

"Were I a Robert Fulton, I would point to the Clearmont on 
the Hudson a century ago, then to the inviting steamboats on 
every navigable river and lake a few decades later, then to the 
great steamships on every sea, and then to the grand old Shinyo 
Maru, on which wife, daughter Robbie and I sailed across the 
Pacific. I would say to my wife: Darling, we sail across this 
great Pacific Ocean to the Orient, gliding smoothly over its 
waters, resting sweetly at night, sheltered in our luxurious state- 
room from sunshine and storm; and would then point to the 
almost impotent Clearmont and say: This is development. 

"What I have said illustrates the development of our fine 
young people, as they advance step by step into higher and still 
higher types, with trained heads and hearts, vessels of honor fit 
for the Master's use. 



220 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"It illustrates the development of this Women's Training 
School from its beginning in Dallas in 1904, and transferred 
from its humble domicile in that city to the Seminary, and be- 
coming a part of that great plant. 

"One of the first heroines to take training in the Training 
School was Miss Ida Taylor, who went from its inspiring pre- 
cincts to the great Chinese mission field. Recently back in this 
country on her first vacation, she went before her old church, 
and in one appeal raised enough to support another missionary 
in China for three years, and enough besides to pay that mis- 
sionary's way to the field. This also was development. Others 
have taken training and gone out for the Master. 

"And now we are here to break dirt for a magnificent build- 
ing to be the permanent home of the institution and to cost 
$120,000. This is the sort of development that lifts up the world 
and glorifies God." 

Fruits. — Mention has already been made of Christian women 
who were trained in the early life of the Training School, some 
of them filling positions on foreign fields. Among others who 
have gone out in later years are Mrs. J. R. Saunders and Miss 
Christine Coffee, both of whom are at Ying-Tak, China, and 
also Miss Maudie Albritton, China. Many others are rendering 
efficient service in the home land as Sunday school teachers, 
pastors' assistants, city and home missionaries. During the 19 13- 
19 14 session, there were 85 students enrolled, most of them 
wives of ministerial students, though there were many young 
ladies unmarried. There were eleven graduates in 1914. 

"That our daughters may be as corner stones, polished." — 
Psalms 144:12. 



CHAPTER XXXII 

TEXAS BAPTIST MEMORIAL SANITARIUM 

Ten years old, but stalwart as if it had been a century grow- 
ing, the Sanitarium at Dallas stands a monument to Texas 
Baptist enterprise and benevolence. Counting its patients up 
near 5,000 a year and increasing that number annually fifty 
per cent, the day approaches when the count will be 10,000 and 
beyond. 

The need of such an institution was keenly felt by R. C. 
Buckner for years before the Baptists of Texas gave it a serious 
thought. The Children's Hospital opened his eyes to the need 
of the larger institution, and for two years before the Sanitarium 
was organized he advocated its establishment in the public prints. 

The Beginning. — "Which of you, intending to build a tower, 
sitteth not down first and counteth the cost?" The counting of 
the cost and forming of plans occupied some months in 1903. 
For quite a while, Dr. Buckner had been advocating the opening 
of a Sanitarium, and sentiment in its favor was growing. In 
1903 a clarion call for a Baptist Sanitarium appeared in "The 
Baptist Standard," of which J. B. Cranfill was then the editor. 
At length came the transfer of the Medical Department of the 
University of Dallas to Baylor University. When this College 
of Medicine came to the Baptists, then came the conviction that 
the times were ripe for the Sanitarium. 

Soon the physicians and surgeons of the College of Medicine 
gave a banquet, which was attended by preachers and other 
prominent citizens. At this banquet Pastor George W. Truett 
asked: "Why might we not now begin the work of establishing 
the Sanitarium?" The question went home to every heart. 

221 



222 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Pastor Truett at once began the raising of funds for this great 
enterprise, and through his heroic efforts, seconded by many 
liberal hearts, the movement was carried to success. In the 
autumn of 1903 the Dallas Pastors' Association (undenomina- 
tional) voted the following endorsement: 

"We, the members of the Dallas Pastors' Association, have 
learned with pleasure of the plans and purpose of our Baptist 
brethren to erect in Dallas a commodious and thoroughly 
equipped Sanitarium on broad humanitarian principles. We rec- 
ognize the need and great benefit of such an institution, not 
only to our city, but to all Protestantism of the entire South- 
west. We hereby express our appreciation, our sympathy and 
our good will for this enterprise, and pledge our hearty coopera- 
tion as far as we shall be able to promote the interests of such 
an institution. 

"Robert Hill, Methodist, 

"President of Dallas Pastors' Association, 
"James O. Reavis, 

"Pastor First Presbyterian Church, 
"John M. Moore, 

"First Methodist Church, 

"Committee." 

At the session of the Baptist General Convention held in 
Dallas, 1903, it was voted, "That we most heartily approve the 
timely movement recently inaugurated to establish in the City 
of Dallas the Texas Baptist Memorial Sanitarium, and we pledge 
to the movement our cordial sympathy and substantial support. 
We believe the completion of this momentous movement will 
work a distinct advance in the denominational life and growth 
of our people." Further, "That this Convention accepts the 
privilege of selecting the directors of the Sanitarium." 

The brethren most active in promoting the enterprise were 
R. C. Buckner, George W. Truett, J. B. Gambrell, C. C. Slaugh- 



Texas Memorial Sanitarium 223 

ter and E. T. Lewis. Organization was effected in February, 
1904, by electing R. C. Buckner, president; George W. Truett, 
secretary, and E. T. Lewis, superintendent. A home for the 
institution was purchased, the identical spot where, with addi- 
tions acquired later, the Sanitarium now stands. A two-story 
brick of 14 rooms stood on this site, and in this brick the 
Sanitarium was opened March 1, 1914. 

In their report to the General Convention, 1904, the directors 
make mention that "they were especially fortunate in securing 
a plat of ground in the heart of the city, beautiful, every way 
ample, and adapted to the needs of the institution." 

The work of the Sanitarium was carried on the first year 
in the original two-story brick. The directors reported con- 
cerning the work of this period : "The experiment has more than 
justified our most sanguine hopes. The building has been usually 
overtaxed and the good results of the work are manifest in 
many ways." 

Dr. Buckner 's Help. — A letter to the writer from Deacon 
E. T. Lewis, of Muskogee, Okla., dated January 28, 1914, says : 

"I was elected superintendent of the Sanitarium and served 
the first year. While I was superintendent, Brother Buckner 
was my principal counsellor and helper. We saw each other 
almost every day, and talked matters over. It was his pleasure 
to advise with me. He was the main stay of the institution the 
first year. But for his financial help during that year, we could 
not have kept it open and running. He advanced, first and last, 
about $3,000 to keep everything in creditable shape. Besides he 
gave during the year $1,000 to the institution. He was never 
too busy with the great Orphans Home to give some of his 
time to the Sanitarium. During the year, Brother Buckner and 
I went to St. Louis and at our own expense secured two trained 
nurses for the Sanitarium." 

It should be recorded to the credit of both Dr. Buckner and 
Deacon Lewis that they donated their time and services, as did 



224 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Dr. Truett, Dr. Gambrell, Colonel C. C. Slaughter and others. 
The Sanitarium paid its way the first year in addition to the 
purchase of fixtures. There were from ten to twenty patients 
all the time. 

New Building. — As the demands on the Sanitarium grew, it 
became clear that a new building of size and adaptation to the 
wants of patients and physicians must be erected. Estimates 
were made calling for an outlay of $250,000, or more. It was 
proposed to erect first a large, central, fireproof building with 
more than 100 choice rooms, with several large wards and a 
beautiful chapel at cost of over $100,000, then later add wings. 
This was reported to the General Convention in session at Waco 
in 1905, and met with the hearty approval of that body. 

Dirt Breaking. — The formal beginning for the new building 
was made November 5, 1904, when a multitude of people at- 
tended the dirt-breaking ceremonies. It was at a time when the 
Tri-State Medical Association was holding sessions in Dallas 
and many of that Association attended the exercises. Dr. Buck- 
ner presided and delivered the opening address, which was as 
follows : 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, Brethren and Fellow Citizens: You 
have been invited here to witness and participate in the cere- 
monies of breaking dirt for the great Sanitarium that is to grace 
this beautiful lawn. We have just awakened from sleep, yawned 
a little, rubbed our eyes and are about to get to work. My 
friend and brother, Colonel C. C. Slaughter, who knows how to 
work, is here with spade in hand, and will give us an ocular 
demonstration of how deep he can drive that instrument into 
the yielding bosom of Mother Earth at a single stroke. That 
will depend more upon his splendid muscular development than 
the size and weight of his foot, for it is evident that that appen- 
dage is easily accommodated inside of a number five kid shoe. 

"We are beginning to realize the fulfillment of a long cher- 
ished dream; not so long as Rip Van Winkle's far-famed nap, 



Texas Memorial Sanitarium 225 

but long enough for us to learn that hope deferred makes the 
heart sick. But we feel better now, and is it not well that we 
should feel convalescent, as we are in the midst of so many 
skillful surgeons and eminent physicians here attending the Tri- 
State Medical Society? 

"Ten years ago my eyes rested with admiration, as they do 
today, on this beautiful lawn, dotted with forest oaks, as a suit- 
able site for a great sanitarium, and commented on it to friends 
and indulged the hope that here or elsewhere in our splendid 
city would ere long be erected such a building. 

"Later on money was offered for the building of a Baptist 
hospital in Dallas. The first offer was made by my lamented 
friend, Dr. Everett, an alumnus of Baylor University, from 
which go out so many men of enterprise, learning and liberality. 
Dr. Everett now rests in the cemetery at Weatherford. Nothing 
was done. Later on other gifts were offered, but they were not 
large enough to create any particular alarm, and nothing was 
done beyond a few conversations and newspaper articles. 

"Coming events are often preceded by light from the rear, 
throwing them to the front. About a year ago there was in this 
city a banquet given in honor of the celebrated bloodless surgeon, 
Dr. Lorenz. Learned doctors, distinguished surgeons and the 
elite of the city were present. My bosom friend, Rev. George 
W. Truett, was requested to reply to a toast, which he did in 
splendid style, suggesting that the occasion be followed by an 
effort at once to build in Dallas a sanitarium on the broadest 
humanitarian principles. A long- felt want was realized, and by 
his splendid arguments and impassioned eloquence, a fire was 
kindled in the hearts of all, and it found vent in the throw- 
ing of hats into the air, the clapping of hands, and hearty 
'Amens.' 

"Later some of us effected an organization, procured a charter 
and purchased these grounds. (Holding up the architect's 
sketch.) Look at this picture? Isn't it a beauty? And we 



226 Life of R. C. Buckner 

hope it will be a joy forever. The building is to front on Junius 
Street, and is to extend back parallel with College Avenue. The 
middle part is to be four stories high, the wings three stories. 
In all our undertakings we should recognize God, and seek His 
blessing and guidance." 

Other roseate talks and speeches were made by Mayor Bryan 
T. Barry, George W. Truett, J. M. Moore, pastor First Meth- 
odist church ; C. I. Scofield, pastor First Congregational church ; 
C. M. Rosser, M.D., Dallas; Colonel C. C. Slaughter, Dallas; 
Dr. F. E. Daniels, San Antonio, president State Medical Asso- 
ciation; and Doctors I. D. Chase of Fort Worth; J. R. Crabill, 
McAlester, Okla., and Paul Y. Tupper of St. Louis. 

The great crowd was electrified when announcement was 
made that contributions to the amount of $35,000 had been 
received without any canvass. There were cheers when Colonel 
Slaughter drove the spade into the soil and turned the turf. 

The directors now faced the problem of moving the original 
brick to get it out of the way of the new building. Many said 
it could not be done without taking it down. Dr. Buckner 
assured them he had seen brick buildings moved without damage 
back in Kentucky when he was a boy, and larger buildings than 
this were moved every year in other cities. A gentleman, sup- 
posed to be posted, said it could be moved for about $700. Dr. 
Buckner quickly replied, "I accept that proposition right now !" 
He was sure it would cost four times that sum, and it did. 

When the two-story brick was moved, the Sanitarium was 
necessarily suspended till such date as the new building could 
be occupied. It required time to erect the new building. It 
was expected to stand many decades. The material and work- 
manship could not be otherwise than first-class. It was built 
on solid rock foundation with no combustible material in its 
construction. By November, 1906, the main building was under 
cover, and the interior work progressing. No campaign was 
made for funds. Voluntary contributions running beyond 



Texas Memorial Sanitarium 227 

$100,000 cheered the hearts of the Building Committee. Colonel 
C. C. Slaughter advanced $100,000. 

The Science building was also in process of construction, to 
which Dr. Buckner gave $100. It contained 16 large rooms and 
became the home of the Training School for Nurses. Before it 
was ready, applications for admission into the Training School 
were received from more than 100 worthy women. 

Dr. Buckner Resigns. — After serving as president of the 
Board of Directors for about five years, Dr. Buckner resigned 
in favor of Colonel C. C. Slaughter. His resignation came No- 
vember 21, 1908, a few days after the meeting of the General 
Convention in Fort Worth, where, under the leadership of Dr. 
Truett, $140,000 was subscribed towards completing the entire 
building. Of this amount, Colonel C. C. Slaughter gave $50,000. 
He had previously given $25,000. Dr. Buckner's resignation, 
read before his board, contained valuable data and is worthy of 
being reproduced here: 

"Dallas, Texas, November 21, 1908. — To the Board of Di- 
rectors of the Texas Baptist Memorial Sanitarium. Dear 
Brethren: I have been with you joyfully in this work from 
the beginning. I now see nearly accomplished the great work 
of benevolence that I advocated in print fully two years before 
our organization was effected, and a magnificent Sanitarium on 
the identical ground I admired and suggested several years before 
we purchased it. 

"I had the honor of writing our charter and of having it 
recorded in Austin at my own charge. You have put my name 
on every working committee but one, and have honored me with 
the presidency all the years since our organization was effected. 
It has been my great joy to help with my time, little means and 
earnest effort to the extent of my ability. I have allowed no 
interest or other thing to prevent me from being present at the 
meetings. I have been with you shoulder to shoulder and heart 
to heart in all our struggles. The great building is now nearly 



228 Life of R. C. Buckner 

complete, and money enough has been secured to insure its early 
completion and opening full-equipped. Really, you need me 
no longer, especially in the president's chair. I, therefore, with 
the most fraternal spirit, tender my resignation as president, 
and at the same time nominate for the office our beloved brother, 
Colonel C. C. Slaughter, who, from the consideration of his 
liberal contributions, and other considerations, richly deserves the 
honor. He will make us a good president. His heart is in the 
work, as well as my own. He is zealous and every way worthy. 
I, therefore, bespeak the immediate acceptance of my resignation 
and his prompt election by unanimous vote. 

"In these, my last words as president, let me assure you that 
I am most heartily with you in the interest of the Sanitarium, 
and that you will find me ever ready, in a quiet, retired way, to 
help you in this great work, and you must not hesitate to com- 
mand me. Fraternally, R. C. Buckner/' 

The directors, after having read Dr. Buckner's resignation, 
unanimously adopted the following resolutions : 

"Resolved (i), That we have just heard with deep regret 
the letter of our beloved president, Dr. R. C. Buckner, in which 
he tenders his resignation as president of this board. 

"Resolved (2), That we record our heartfelt gratitude to 
him for the faithful and tireless service he has rendered us as 
our leader in the great work that has been committed to our 
hands. From the inception of the Sanitarium enterprise, he has 
been unflagging in his energy and zeal in its behalf, and his 
noble work as president of this board has been one of the most 
potent factors in the success with which our interests have been 
crowned." 

Following this action, Dr. Buckner's resignation was accepted 
and Colonel Slaughter was unanimously chosen president. In 
fitting words he accepted. 

This institution was the beginning of Baptist sanitarium work 



Texas Memorial Sanitarium 229 

in the Southwest. It is on the broadest humanitarian principles. 
The charter provides that the sick and dying within its walls 
shall be respected in their religious convictions, and have at their 
bedsides such religious advisers and comforters as they may 
desire. And here is exemplified the Baptist principle of absolute 
liberty of conscience in matters of religion. 

During the first month after the new opening, 137 patients 
were received; the first year, 1,673. This number has increased 
into thousands. In its conception it was in the Sanitarium plan 
that close affiliations be maintained with the Baylor University 
College of Medicine. Accordingly, by mutual agreement, the 
College of Medicine occupies parts of the Sanitarium Ramsuer 
Science Building, and in turn all the scientific laboratories and 
apparatus of the College of Medicine are constantly used in the 
interest of every patient in the Sanitarium. 

The sky is clear, and a bright sun mounts to meridian splen- 
dor. A thrill swept the great Baptist General Convention at 
its meeting in 19 13. It came when Pastor George W. Truett 
read a proposition from Colonel C. C. Slaughter, offering to give 
to the Sanatorium two dollars for every three dollars received 
from all other sources up to $200,000 on his part, the same to be 
paid by January 1, 1918. 

This institution is of God. And, as declared by R. C. Buck- 
ner and his board in 1907, "We expect it to stand to the glory 
of Christ and the honor of our Baptist people to the end of 
time." 






CHAPTER XXXIII 



BUCKNER AS PEACEMAKER 



Buckner as Peacemaker. — Away back in 1875, on March 28, 
appeared an editorial in "The Texas Baptist," entitled "Peace, 
Peace." General J. E. Harrison, of Waco, read it and then 
sent Dr. Buckner this note: "I thank you for that editorial, 
Teace, Peace/ I extend my hand of Christian fellowship to 
you and take you into my arms for that editorial." 

A little later, January 28, 1878, an article appeared in "The 
Texas Baptist," written by Dr. B. H. Carroll, from which we 
quote: "If ever a man, in conducting a religious journal, pursued 
a peace policy, Brother Buckner is that man. The general com- 
plaint against him is that he is too conciliatory and too modest. 
I think, however, we had better let him alone." 

The passing years have witnessed no small number of in- 
stances in which Dr. Buckner was the accepted daysman in 
bringing about reconciliation between opposing factions of his 
brethren. 

During the early years of Texarkana Baptists, a division was 
healed through his efforts, resulting in one strong, united church. 
Another division arose later in the same church. A sister whose 
husband kept a saloon offered, on a certain occasion, a liberal 
contribution. "We cannot receive it," said some, "it is tainted 
money." Others said, "Receive it." There was disagreement 
and contention. Dr. Buckner counseled the church to receive it. 
He said, "While the lady's husband keeps a saloon, he also deals 
extensively in real estate, and you cannot tell whether the sister's 
money was made selling liquor or selling real estate. His advice 
was heeded, the breach healed and the money put into the Lord's 

230 



Buckner as Peacemaker 231 

treasury. Later Dr. Buckner visited this saloon man when he 
was sick and prayed for him. His heart was melted. 

At Denison in its early days, some country brethren tried to 
keep up a little church outside the town. It was a hopeless task. 
Dr. Buckner preached to them some days, visited in their homes, 
and influenced them to go into the town and unite with the town 
brethren. The result was a strong church and years of spiritual 
prosperity. 

At Palo Pinto, when that church was very young, it was 
divided into two factions. The cause was suffering. Dr. 
Buckner was soon on the ground. He assembled the brethren 
day by day in the court house, preaching to them for two weeks, 
and left them united, strengthened and revived. The venerable 
missionary, G. W. Slaughter, father of C. C. Slaughter, and 
others were happy and expressed themselves as well pleased 
with the results. 

During the closing years of the nineteenth century a division 
arose in the First Baptist church at Paris, Texas. Dr. Buckner 
went to the rescue. He found a considerable number following 
the new preacher and claiming and holding the meeting-house. 
He hired another house and preached several days, saving many 
to the truth. The company gathered by Dr. Buckner, being 
sound on the atonement, was the true Paris Baptist church. The 
other party still held the house, but were willing to sell. Dr. 
Buckner counseled to buy it and set the brethren to work raising 
the money. He came away and went to New Orleans to the 
meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention, which met in May, 
1901. While there he received a message from Paris that the 
brethren had done their best and still lacked $1,500. He wired 
that he would see it paid, and he did pay $1,200 of it out of his 
own pocket. But the cause in Paris was saved and a grateful 
people went on keeping house for God. 

At Highland Church, in Collin County, estrangement grew 
up between the pastor, T. B. McComb, and a large part of his 



232 Life of R. C. Buckner 

flock. Buckner went to their assistance. But when he got there 
the brethren said : "Brother Buckner himself is the man for our 
pastor." He saw his opportunity, accepted and worked for the 
restoration of the old pastor. It was the work of only a few 
months. Then he stepped down and out, and the flock followed 
the old shepherd, T. B. McComb. Later, when the church 
moved to Anna and erected a new house, Dr. Buckner was 
invited to preach the dedicatory sermon, which he did with joy. 

In the early years of the twentieth century, a suit was pend- 
ing in the courts, in which one man was plaintiff and a large 
number of prominent brethren were defendants. The suit did 
not turn out to the plaintiff's profit, but did sorely try the pa- 
tience of the Lord's people. An opportunity came to Dr. J. B. 
Cranfill, one of the defendants, to stop the proceedings in an 
honorable way. As others besides himself were involved, he 
sought the advice of Dr. Buckner. Dr. Buckner advised the 
ending of the suits. Following is Dr. Crannll's statement, copied 
from the Dallas Times-Herald, May 3, 1905 : 

"I wish in this connection to thank Dr. Buckner, who for 
more than twenty years has been one of my dearest friends, for 
his counsel and advice in settling these cases (law suits). He 
has never at any time been connected with them." 

Settling Associational Troubles. — At a meeting of Sister 
Grove Association with Antioch Church in Grayson County, 
Texas, 1877, there was threatened division, growing out of lack 
of discipline on the part of one or two churches. Some thought 
as the churches would not take hold of the cases, the association 
should do it. Dr. Buckner was appealed to. He advised that 
it was "the duty of local churches to enforce discipline in all 
cases requiring it, and that the association must decline. The 
association could and must drop from its correspondence churches 
unsound in faith and practice, or for unscripturally receiving 
and retaining excluded members. Further than this, she has 
nothing to do with matters of discipline." — Texas Baptist, August 



Buckner as Peacemaker 233 

30, 1877. This counsel was heard and Sister Grove Association 
went on with its legitimate business. 

In 1883 there was an unhappy state of affairs in North 
Texas, in which two associations were trying to occupy the same 
territory. They were Elm Fork Association and Dallas-Collin 
Association. 

Elm Fork had been in existence ever since 1849, an d behind 
her was brilliant history. Dallas-Collin was a split-off from 
Elm Fork, and had been in existence only one or two years. At 
the time the split occurred, Elm Fork was holding a session in 
the open air under a bush arbor on White Rock Creek, near 
Dallas. Dr. Buckner was moderator. Some brethren were out 
of harmony, boisterous, walking and disturbing with loud talk. 
Moderator Buckner brought down the gavel with force, saying: 
"Brethren, you must not disturb. Officers are here and it is 
their duty to stop this disturbance." An officer said, "Yes, sir, 
I will arrest any man that disturbs further." They took their 
seats and were quiet. But they soon gathered their following 
and went out. This was the origin of Dallas-Collin. 

In September, 1883, Elm Fork was in session at Stewart's 
Creek, Denton County, and Dallas-Collin in the City of Dallas. 
Dr. Buckner, at the meeting of Elm Fork, asked that the regular 
business be suspended while he read a paper looking to peace 
and union with Dallas-Collin. Following is an excerpt: 

"To the Dallas-Collin Association the Elm Fork Association 
sendeth Christian salutation. Dear Brethren : Desiring to forget 
all unpleasantness, and to labor for the Master and the things 
that make for peace, we address you this communication in 
humility and love. 

"So far as we know, most of the churches of your Association 
formerly corresponded with our Association and have not in any 
formal way been dropped from our list. 

"2. We recognize them and other churches you may have 
received as sound in the faith and worthy of our fellowship. 



234 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"3. We desire the history of Elm Fork Association to be 
perpetuated, as it is the oldest Association in this part of Texas, 
and we believe its history is equally cherished by yourselves. 

"We therefore express the brotherly wish that we all may 
meet together in annual session, Friday before the first Sunday 
in September, 1884, with Big Springs Church in Dallas County. 
No petitionary letters will be expected on your part. The simple 
presentation of letter and messengers is all that will be asked." 

This was adopted and hurriedly sent by messengers to the 
Dallas-Collin body. 

The reply came by telegram : "Your communication and mes- 
sengers received. Will meet with you next year." 

A resolution of "profound gratitude to the God of peace" 
was voted when the telegram was read, and a hymn of praise 
sung. 

Embarrassing but Praiseworthy. — In 1883 R. C. Buckner was 
president of the Baptist General Association, and was sent by 
that body, with other brethren, as corresponding messenger to 
the Baptist State Convention, which met that year in Belton. 
When he arrived, he found there were two or three leading 
brethren opposed to his being seated as a corresponding mes- 
senger. He was approached by brethren of kingdom standing, 
such as W. C. Crane, J. H. Stribling and the Convention's presi- 
dent, C. C. Chaplin, who assured him that he would be instantly 
seated, but that two or three men would leave. He replied, "I 
will consider what is best to do." 

He was being entertained in the home of Capt. B. N. Boren 
and went there for dinner. But his heart was heavy. He wept. 
After dinner he returned to the Convention. When a call was 
made for corresponding messengers, he arose and thus addressed 
President Chaplin: 

"Brother President, I am here as corresponding messenger 
from the Baptist General Association. But I have learned that 
two or three brethren will retire if I am seated. I will not, 



Buckner as Peacemaker 235 

therefore, ask the honor of a seat. But I have a list of other 
brethren appointed by the General Association to represent that 
body in your Convention." He read the list, leaving out his 
own name. The names read were seated. 

As soon as opportunity presented, many brethren sought Dr. 
Buckner, shaking his hand and expressing their admiration for 
his peace-loving spirit. 

A few years after that (1895), the great consolidated Baptist 
General Convention assembled in the same meeting-house at 
Belton and elected Dr. Buckner as its president. 

Elimination of "Ninth Article." — The original constitution 
of the Baptist General Convention of Texas, adopted in 1886, 
contained but eight articles. But in 1899 a Ninth Article was 
adopted, the object of which was to prevent persons from taking 
part in the Convention, who "were in continued hostility to the 
work and purposes of the Convention, or an impediment to its 
work." Enemies made war on this Ninth Article and some 
friends of the Convention thought it unwise. But it served a 
good purpose at the first. After a few years there seemed to 
be no further need of it, and in 1913 the Convention eliminated 
it from the constitution. But five years before this was done, 
Dr. Buckner suggested in "The Baptist Standard" : "Now, 
without discussion or apology, I respectfully suggest that the 
Ninth Article, no longer needed by the Baptist General Conven- 
tion of Texas, be removed from its constitution at its next 
session." — Baptist Standard, September 10, 1908. 

No one can doubt that this suggestion by the president of 
the Convention influenced the thinking of the denomination in 
Texas, or that it contributed to the final removal of the Ninth 
Article. 

Louisville Paper Trouble. — In 1908, and for some time pre- 
vious, there was serious disagreement and contention in Louis- 
ville, Ky., involving directly and indirectly the two Louisville 
Baptist papers, editors and friends, and involving questions of 



236 Life of R. C. Buckner 

vital interest to the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and 
to Baptist affairs in Kentucky and the entire South. Unpleasant 
things were published and discussion became so sharp, if not 
bitter, that attorneys were employed and threats made to go into 
the courts. Distinguished brethren in other states looked on 
with dismay. 

Such was the situation when the Southern Baptist Conven- 
tion met in Hot Springs, Ark., May, 1908. While others could 
see no hope of settlement by any sort of careful and brotherly 
mediation, a deep conviction moved R. C. Buckner to take steps 
to that end. This was perhaps the most difficult and delicate 
task ever undertaken by Dr. Buckner in all the years of his long 
life. The brethren to be reconciled were princes in the Baptist 
denomination, of finished education, of the highest repute and 
standing throughout the Southern Baptist Convention and the 
world. Their friends, counted by the hundreds, were men of 
affairs, of sterling worth and above reproach. Moreover, each 
party was firm in the belief that its own cause was pre-eminently 
the cause of righteousness. 

Without consulting with anyone save the Prince of Peace, 
Dr. Buckner retired to his hotel in Hot Springs and drew up a 
basis of agreement, which, if signed by the brethren connected 
with the Louisville periodicals, the "Western Recorder" and the 
"Baptist World," he hoped would end the strife. But not a man 
of them was willing to sign it. 

Then Dr. Buckner drew up a petition addressed to those same 
gentlemen, and secured to it the signatures of more than fifty 
leading men, who were in attendance on the Convention, king- 
dom brethren from all parts of the South, eminent pastors, 
school men and Convention officers. In that petition were these 
words : "We do, as your friends and brethren, most respectfully 
and earnestly advise you and entreat you to enter into such agree- 
ment." This petition was presented to them and they expressed 
their appreciation of the same. 



Buckner as Peacemaker 237 

But it was no easy task to get these Louisville men to sign 
any peace agreement. The long list of names to the petition 
was not sufficient. It was not signed at Hot Springs, and Dr. 
Buckner returned to Dallas. 

But he quickly received a letter from Dr. M. P. Hunt, pastor 
of Twenty-second and Walnut Street Church, Louisville, sug- 
gesting that the quicker the trouble was settled the better. 

Following is an excerpt from that letter: "I write at the 
instance of some of us who are deeply interested to know your 
plans for straightening our tangle here in Louisville. Do you 
think best for you to come here? On June 9 the General Asso- 
ciation of Kentucky Baptists will be in session in my church 
in this city, and what is done ought, if possible, be done before 
that body convenes." This letter was written May 23. Three 
days later Dr. Buckner was in Louisville. Engaging rooms at 
a hotel, he drew up a new document entitled "An Agreement," 
elegantly and carefully worded, and comparing favorably with 
the best prepared legal productions. He then sent for the 
brethren, one by one, and labored with them individually, with 
some of them in the dead hours of the night. It took two days 
to get all their names. The agreement was signed in triplicate, 
each party holding a copy and Dr. Buckner retaining one. Fol- 
lowing is a copy of the original just as it was signed: 

"An agreement. — We, the undersigned, regret that we, or any 
of us, have published the statement of any fact or facts, opinion or 
opinions, that have reflected, or appear to have reflected, on the 
motives, veracity or integrity of any one person, or persons, con- 
nected with this matter, and we request our brethren and all others 
to regard these things as if they were never published. We feel 
that we have no moral right to disturb our brethren or the public 
by the publication of personal grievances, or other things calcu- 
lated to disturb the peace and good fellowship of our Baptist 
brethren, or others. If we could, we would blot the things re- 
ferred to from our memory, each for himself, and we request 



238 Life of R. C. Buckner 

our brethren to erase them from the tablets of their memory, so 
far as possible. We will publish this agreement in our respec- 
tive papers, without note or comment, and in the first issue after 
appending our signatures hereunto. Further, and as a part of this 
agreement, also to be published, we obligate ourselves and pledge 
our honor that this shall be the end of the whole matter, and 
that hereafter these things shall not be brought up, directly or 
indirectly, by us in any publication whatever, nor by others with 
our consent. (Signed) Wm. D. Nowlin, J. G. Bow, W. P. 
Harvey." 

The settlement was permanent. "A deplorable and widening 
breach was healed, the cause of peace conserved and no man's 
honor or business interest was compromised." 

Great Rejoicing. — The settlement of the Louisville troubles 
was hailed with joy over the entire South, and the success of 
Buckner's undertaking followed by a shower of congratulatory 
letters. We take the following excerpts: 

"I rejoice. You have doubtless saved the cause of Christ much 
disturbance." — A. J. Holt, Knoxville, Tennessee. 

"I congratulate you on your success in that difficult and deli- 
cate undertaking. The beatitude of the peacemaker is yours." — 
E. C. Dargan, Pastor, Macon, Georgia; later President of the 
Southern Baptist Convention. 

"I deeply appreciate your kindly offices in bringing peace out 
of the complicated situation in Louisville. I do not know anyone 
else whose words would have such weight with all Baptists." — 
Henry Alford Porter, Pastor, Walnut Street, Louisville. 

"I surely congratulate you on the good work done. The 
blessings of the peacemaker are on you. It is worth all your 
time and trouble, and I hope its fruits will run through many 
years. It is all so much like you." — J. M. Frost, Corresponding 
Secretary Sunday School Board, Nashville, Tennessee. 

"I rejoice in the success you had in Louisville. God's hand 
was in the effort. God prolong your life to do many other noble 



Buckner as Peacemaker 239 

deeds for His cause." — R. M. Inlow, Pastor, Joplin, Missouri. 

"You are to be congratulated by everyone cognizant of the 
facts for your great and successful work. Surely you were 
guided and aided by the Holy Spirit." — Joshua Levering, Late 
President Southern Baptist Convention, Baltimore, Maryland. 

" 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the 
children of God.' This is your high reward for the part you 
have beautifully filled in this unfortunate affair. I always loved 
you, but now I love you more for this, assisting brethren to 
act as brethren." — J. A. French, Pastor First Baptist Church, 
Austin, Texas. 

"The settlement of that trouble is worth half of a man's life- 
time. May the blessing of the Father be on you and the bless- 
ing of the peacemaker abide with you." — J. B. Gambrell, Cor- 
responding Secretary Baptist General Convention, Dallas, Texas. 

"I am greatly rejoiced that you have handled the situation 
at Louisville so splendidly. I was really afraid when we left 
Hot Springs that we were going to have trouble with the situ- 
ation in Kentucky. The brotherhood of the South owes you 
a debt of gratitude." — B. W. Spillman, Field Secretary Sunday 
School Board, Winston, North Carolina. 

"I congratulate you on the good offices you have rendered 
in bringing things to this issue. 'Blessed are the peacemakers.' 
That beatitude belongs to you pre-eminently just now." — B. D. 
Gray, Corresponding Secretary Home Mission Board, Atlanta, 
Georgia. 

"I have just learned of the great service you have rendered 
our common Christianity. You have set a new pace for Baptists. 
And never was anything more opportune. I shudder to think 
what the results might have been if this strife had come to a 
head." — S. M. Provence, Pastor, Wynne, Arkansas. 

"The Lord in His sermon on the mount passed an encomium 
on you. Remember that I love you. May you live long to con- 
tinue to exercise great influence among the brethren." — R. J. 



240 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Willingham, Corresponding Secretary Foreign Mission Board, 
Richmond, Virginia. 

The following is from the "Baptist Standard," June 18, 1908: 
"That signed agreement, published in both the "Recorder" 
and the "Baptist World," is a masterpiece of thought, diction 
and reconciliation. Let the young men who think the old men 
cannot do things sit up and take notice that the senior father 
in Israel has wrought his mightiest work at seventy-five. This 
was the work of a statesman. Peacemakers like Gladstone and 
Roosevelt could well add this garland of peace to their crowns 
of glory." 



CHAPTER XXXIV 

HELPING THE COLORED PEOPLE 

In the days of R. C. Buckner's boyhood, negro Baptists held 
membership in the same church with the whites, and one pastor 
was pastor of both whites and blacks. Both races assembled for 
worship in the same meeting-house and at the same hour. In 
some instances seats were designated for the blacks on the same 
floor with the whites, in other cases the blacks occupied seats in 
the gallery. 

When Elder Daniel Buckner, father of R. C. Buckner, was 
pastor at Somerset, Kentucky, a part of his flock was colored 
and occupied their own seats in the northwest corner of the audi- 
torium on the same floor with the whites. 

In those good days spiritual gifts among the negroes were 
recognized the same as among the whites. Pious blacks were 
sometimes made deacons to administer to their own color. Others 
with gifts and graces were ordained to the full work of the gospel 
ministry. 

During R. C. Buckner's first pastorate at Albany, Kentucky, 
a negro preacher, a slave, held membership in the Albany church. 
He was known as "Uncle Charley Denton," and enjoyed the 
esteem and confidence of whites and blacks. Buckner was his 
pastor, but he was permitted to have "his preaching day" and 
fill his pastor's pulpit, preaching to his own color. Whites attended 
occasionally. 

On one occasion, in the old Baptist meeting-house at Som- 
erset, a black man belonging to Judge Prather made a profes- 
sion of faith in Christ, and instantly the Judge met his black 
servant in the church aisle, and the two men threw their arms 
about each other and wept for joy. They were brethren. The 
boy, R. C. Buckner, saw this and was deeply impressed. 

241 



242 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Those early pictures never faded from his memory. They 
fixed in his mind a profound conviction of the immortality of the 
soul of both white and black, and also a conviction of the respon- 
sibility of the white race respecting the salvation of the black. 

When the war closed, the ignorance and spiritual destitution 
among the thousands of colored people in Texas and elsewhere 
were appalling. Buckner, then pastor at Paris, saw their need 
of help. There was opportunity to do them good, and opportu- 
nity is obligation. 

First North Texas Negro Association. — Says A. R. Griggs, 
colored preacher, Dallas: "Dr. Buckner was among the first 
white preachers in Texas to administer to the spiritual advance- 
ment of the colored race. He was often among them, preaching 
to them and instructing them how to conduct prayer-meetings 
and Sunday Schools. He led in the organization of the first 
negro Baptist association in North Texas. It was organized 
in Bowie County. Dr. Buckner acted as moderator and asked 
another white brother to serve as secretary. After the enrolling 
of names and other preliminaries, Dr. Buckner said : 

" Tt is now necessary that some one make a motion that we 
do here and now constitute ourselves into a district association/ 
No one understood. He again said: 'Some one move that we 
organize an association/ An old brother rose, left his seat, 
went across the room to another seat, and said, 'Now I have 
moved for de 'sociation!' 

"Dr. Buckner was patient, instructed them, carried them 
through the formalities, and the association was formed and 
called 'Zion/ Forest Hooks, elected moderator that day, con- 
tinued moderator thirty years." 

First North Texas Negro High School. — In August, 1877, 
the Sister Grove Association of white Baptists was in its twenty- 
fifth annual session with Antioch Church, in Grayson County. 
Dr. Buckner was present, and while there declared it to be the 
duty of the whites to help support missionaries among the col- 



Helping the Colored People 243 

ored, and also help them establish high schools. The Association 
so voted. Then he took a collection to found a colored Baptist 
high school in Dallas, and started the collection with his own 
money. This was the first money put into that school. It greatly 
encouraged the negroes. They immediately started out Elder 
A. R. Griggs canvassing among their own people and within 
four months had $1,000. The school was then opened. See 
"Texas Baptist," August 30, 1877. This school prospered in 
Dallas many years, taught by Professor S. H. Smothers. Later 
it was transferred to Brazoria County for the colored in that 
section. 

A Lively Meeting. — Let us look in on an early day negro 
meeting. It is in Dallas in the church of Pastor A. R. Griggs, 
February 6, 1881. R. C. Buckner and a white deacon, S. B. 
Penry, are present. There are two candidates to be baptized, 
and Dr. Buckner gives the congregation a word-picture of the 
baptism by Philip of the Ethiopian eunuch. (But the pastor, 
being a wise man, will, of course, catch the purses of the visiting 
white brethren, and of the large crowd of curious blacks who 
are present to witness the baptism.) So he announces that there 
must be a collection before there is any baptizing, and Buckner 
and Penry both "throw in." 

The pastor at the same time standing in the pulpit: "Come 
right along. Put in your small change for current expenses, 
and your big money to ceil the meeting-house. The Lord might 
blow the top off this house if you don't ceil it! Many thanks 
to all of you, both white and black, for liberal offering." 

The pulpit is removed and the large baptistry exposed. As 
preacher and candidates go down into the water, the people 
sing with great spirit: 

"I must do the work required of me — 
Religion is so sweet! 
I undertake and must go through — 
Religion is so sweet!" 



244 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Now perfect silence, save the preacher's voice and the deeply 
impressive voice of the baptismal waters. 
Again, as they come up out of the water: 

"I have done the work required of me — 
Religion is so sweet! 
I undertook and did go through — 
Religion is so sweet!" 

— "Texas Baptist," February 10, 1881. 

Baptising and Marrying. — In the earlier days, numbers of 
colored people solicited Dr. Buckner to baptize, and others solic- 
ited him to marry them. All this he was glad to do. Some of 
them were very ignorant and understood little of the laws con- 
cerning matrimony. But they had learned that they could not 
get married without a marriage license. One day after Dr. 
Buckner had married a dusky pair, another young gentleman of 
color, tired of single loneliness, came to him and asked if it would 
be all right to borrow the marriage license of the newly wedded 
couple, bring his sweetheart and get married without further 
bother ! 

A. R. Griggs Assisted. — Elder Griggs was born a slave in 
Navarro County, and came to Dallas a young preacher in 1875. 
His only training up to that time was a few lessons in a night 
school. In July of that year he became pastor of New Hope 
Colored Baptist Church with about twenty-five members. Dr. 
Buckner was publishing the Texas Baptist, and gave Griggs 
counsel and sold him valuable books. He was a good student, 
and within three years was publishing the "Baptist Journal," 
the first negro paper in Texas. Dr. Buckner and Rev. L. W. 
Coleman assisted him. Buckner went out with him on the field 
and aided him in establishing churches and doing other work. 
In 1885, on Dr. Buckner's recommendation, the Baptist General 
Association employed Elder Griggs as missionary to the colored 
people at a salary of $1,200 a year. But Griggs reduced it to 



Helping the Colored People 245 

$1,000. This help from the whites was a great encouragement to 
the colored people. To quote Elder Griggs : "Money flowed into 
the mission treasury by hundreds and thousands of dollars. 
Churches caught the fire of the Holy Ghost, and sometimes thou- 
sands were baptized in a day. Every association in the State 
fell into line and missionaries were sent out in every direc- 
tion." 

Assisted by Dr. Buckner and a wealthy lady, Elder Griggs 
in 1886 and 1887 attended the Richmond Institute and Theo- 
logical Seminary (Virginia). Griggs soon gained a national rep- 
utation. In 1890 to 1893 he was president of the National Bap- 
tist Convention. In 1896 he was General Agent for Bishop Col- 
lege and Hearne Institute. In 1905 he was made a messenger 
from Texas to the World's Baptist Congress, London, England, 
later known as the World's Baptist Alliance. While in London, 
he visited and addressed Spurgeon's Orphanage. During the 
same year he attended the French National Baptist Convention 
at Paris, France, and addressed that body. He has held many 
other important positions, as National Baptist Foreign Mission 
Field Secretary for Africa and other fields, and National Field 
Missionary Secretary for ministerial student funds. 

It is seen that early help given Elder Griggs meant help to 
the negro race in America and other parts of the world. Dr. 
Buckner's early deep and abiding interest in Elder Griggs is 
seen from a letter written Griggs December 1, 1886, from which 
we quote: "I have watched closely for a longer time than any 
other friend you have probably your progress in knowledge and 
your growth in the ministry. I feel thankful to God our Father 
for the degree of success with which He has blessed you." 

Dickson Colored Orphanage. — For a good while R. C. Buck- 
ner was anxious to see a colored orphanage founded, and for 
years held correspondence with A. R. Griggs and others looking 
to that end. This led to the calling of a convention of colored 
Baptists for its establishment. The meeting was held in New 



246 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Hope Baptist Church, Dallas. Buckner's address at that meeting 
inspired the negroes with purpose and zeal. Citizens of Upshur 
County proposed to give a plat of ground near Gilmer on which 
to locate the Home. The charter was copied largely from the 
charter of Buckner Orphans Home, and Dr. Buckner had it 
recorded at his own charges. 

The first meeting, at which a Board of Directors was elected, 
was held at Gilmer, Texas, July 25, 1900. It was called by Dr. 
Buckner and held in the courthouse. Elder W. L. Dickson, col- 
ored pastor at Gilmer, led in singing the hymn commencing, 
"Alas ! and did my Savior bleed." 

After the singing, Dr. Buckner read James, second chapter, 
commenting especially on the following: "What doth it profit, 
my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and hath not 
works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, 
and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, 
Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye 
give not those things which are needful to the body, what doth it 
profit? Even so faith, if it have not works, is dead, being alone. 
* * * Show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show 
you my faith by my works." Then he led in prayer. After 
prayer he explained the object of the meeting. 

The charter was adopted and Board of Directors chosen as 
follows: R. C. Buckner, president; A. R. Griggs, D. A. Scott 
and G. W. Hood, first, second and third vice-presidents; N. A. 
Seale (white), secretary; W. Boyd (white), treasurer; W. L. 
Dickson (colored), superintendent; John Marshall (colored), 
L. W. Williams (white), proxy for J. M. Darrah; Henry 
Greenwall (colored), A. Hudson (colored), J. W. Bussey 
(white). 

Mr. F. S. Everett, an attorney, arose and expressed deep 
interest in the Orphanage and presented a deed to seventy acres 
of land, more or less, paid for by the citizens of Gilmer. The 
land was near the town with several houses and thirty acres in 



Helping the Colored People 247 

cultivation. A collection for the Orphanage followed, amounting 
to $306. 

The Orphanage was dedicated on its own property, January 
4, 1901, with six children. Dr. Buckner agreed to serve as 
president four years to help get the Orphanage well started. 
But he held that position five years. There were added to the 
original site during his incumbency eighty-seven acres of land. 
The property was worth $14,000, and 1,120 children had been 
cared for at the time of his resignation. Dr. Buckner encouraged 
the Orphanage in many ways. He gave it groceries at one time 
to the amount of nearly $100, and sent money to the manage- 
ment repeatedly. He presided at the regular and all the called 
Board meetings for five years, always paying his own expenses. 
Through his influence the management was given a hearing be- 
fore the Baptist General Convention for years, which greatly 
helped to create sentiment in favor of the Orphanage. After Dr. 
Buckner's retirement, the institution passed through several or- 
deals, but survived, and in less than ten years had property worth 
$40,000, an elegant "R. C. Buckner Hall," and was caring 
for more than 150 children annually. 



CHAPTER XXXV 
children's bureau bill 

Two Doctrines.— For a long time there have been two views 
among philanthropists as to the better way to handle the orphan 
problem. One view is, that, as a rule, it is better to rear the 
children in well-regulated institutions, and there train them for 
this life and that which is to come. The other view is, that it is 
better to find homes for them in private families. 

A Darkened Sky. — For many years a sunny sky had smiled 
on the orphan institutions, but at length, in the year 1909, the 
sky was suddenly overcast, and a desolating tempest threatened 
to sweep every home for orphans and carry the motherless little 
ones on its bosom like autumn leaves. The storm was gathering 
in the nation's capital and in halls of the nation's lawmakers. 

Washington Conference. — On January 25, 1909, in the city 
of Washington was convened a "Conference" to deliberate on the 
best way to deal with dependent orphan children. The confer- 
ence was called by Colonel Roosevelt, President of the United 
States. This gave its findings tremendous prestige. But it was 
called mainly in the interest of the "home-finding" theory, and 
recommended that homes for orphan children be found in fami- 
lies rather than in institutions. Dr. Buckner was not invited 
to the Conference, though he had been for thirty years at the 
head of one of the greatest and best orphanages in the world. 

Hear Rev. A. J. Jamison, Superintendent of the Connie Max- 
well Orphanage, Greenwood, South Carolina: "I attended the 
Conference called by President Roosevelt at Washington, and 
feel that the half-dozen or so of institution men who were there 
must have been invited accidentally. It was evident to me that 

248 



Children's Bureau Bill 249 

only the home-finding people were meant to compose the confer- 
ence. I delivered a short address, which I thought temperate 
enough, but the great ones pounced upon me and wiped me off 
the face of the earth." — From letter to Dr. Buckner, February 
ii, 1909. 

Mr. Roosevelt immediately recommended Congressional leg- 
islation, having for its end the carrying out of the findings of 
the Conference, and in less time than a week after the Conference 
adjourned he sent a copy of its conclusions to the governor of 
every State in the Union, together with a personal letter heartily 
endorsing its recommendations. A bill was brought before Con- 
gress called the "Children's Bureau Bill," which was intended to 
help the cause of "home-finding." Its friends bestirred them- 
selves with great zeal to secure its passage. They sent out a 
"hurried call" February 16, 1909, giving directions, "How You 
Can Help." 

The Bill Passed. — The bill passed Congress, though without 
the help of the senators from Texas. Dr. Buckner received a 
letter from Senator Joseph W. Bailey, bearing date February 10, 
1909, from which we quote: "I value your opinion in respect 
to the matter even above that of President Roosevelt. No man 
in Texas or elsewhere has devoted himself so unselfishly to the 
problem of helping orphan children, and your experience, com- 
bined with your ability and sound democracy, entitles what you 
say on the subject to peculiar weight." 

Senator Charles A. Culberson also wrote to Dr. Buckner on 
the same date, February 10, 1909, "I agree with you." 

Dr. Buckner was opposed to the wholesale scattering of chil- 
dren that were being cared for in good institutions. The Texas 
senators "agreed with him." He has all along placed some chil- 
dren in homes where childless parents yearned for children to 
love, adopt and educate. But this has always been done with 
caution. 

The Popular Side. — Many people there are who fly to the 



250 Life of R. C. Buckner 

popular side. And now the "child-placing" doctrine loomed up 
as the popular thing. At once sharp criticisms like polished 
shafts began to be hurled at orphan institutions and their advo- 
cates. A popular New York magazine was already on the field 
full-armed against institutions and in favor of "child-placing." 
Skilled literary chefs were found by that publication, and fancy 
dishes served up to the public. Following are juicy bits : 

"Superintendents and matrons and boards of managers, please 
stand aside." "The institution bars development." "Institutions 
have a great part to play, but the most important institution is 
the home." "The world is full of misfits, which it is our business 
to set right if we can. The worst of all is that which sets the 
child and home apart." "It is the home, not the public institu- 
tion, that lifts." "The family home is the best institution * * * 
for the care of homeless, neglected children." "Who can say 
which is the most pitiful, a homeless child or a childless home?" 

The foregoing are samples, and by such criticisms institutions 
were shaded through months and years, while "child-placing" was 
ever kept in the golden sunlight. 

The Sky Cleared Again. — The Children's Bureau Bill and all 
the child-placing eloquence were insufficient to turn the great 
American nation against well-regulated institutions. Whether 
those sharp shafts of rhetoric proved to be boomerangs or not, 
the storm abated without damage, the sky cleared again and 
orphan institutions continued increasing in favor with God 
and men. 

All Eyes on Dr. Buckner. — While the Washington storm was 
roaring, the eyes of philanthropic people in every State turned 
to Texas. One question was on their lips: "Where does R. C. 
Buckner stand?" And when it was known that he stood for the 
properly conducted institution, they stood with him. And with 
them stood the nation. 

Buckner and Institutions. — Pastor S. C. Ohrum, D. D., Indian- 
apolis, Indiana, while in Dallas, Texas, October, 1913, remarked: 



Children's Bureau Bill 251 

"Buckner Orphans Home is a beacon light all over the United 
States." Of like tenor is the testimony of men who have visited 
orphanages in America and Europe. 

The remarkable health and marvelously low death rate in 
Buckner Orphans Home argue that Dr. Buckner has solved the 
health problem of institutional life. How? By locating the 
Home on one of the highest ridges in Dallas County, by an 
abundant supply of pure artesian water lifted from more than 
2,000 feet in the earth, by attention to sanitary conditions and 
by supplying plain, wholesome food. And he has solved the prob- 
lems of industrial, educational, moral and religious training of 
children of which we do not now speak. Is it any marvel that 
the world has come to look upon his opinions as of "peculiar 
weight," as Senator Bailey expressed it? 

A "new movement" was proposed, with the president of the 
United States, Congress and millions of money behind it. The 
New York magazine referred to in a preceding paragraph had 
hopes that "institutions everywhere would be compelled to rec- 
ognize institutional life for the child as a necessary evil." Dr. 
Buckner could not remain silent. We quote from his Annual, 
1907-1908, page 12: 

"He (editor of New York magazine) seeks to correct the 
'evil' and sets up his magazine for the pulling down of strong- 
holds of orphan homes and the scattering of their children here 
and there through his agencies and agents." 

But even the redoubtable New York editor himself, after 
working at it a while, found "child-placing" very difficult business 
and soon came out with this good confession : 

"The wise placement of a child in a strange home is the most 
difficult and delicate of all charitable problems." Then the rear- 
ing of children in good institutions is less "difficult and delicate" 
than placing them in strange families. 

The question on many lips was, "Where does Dr. Buckner 
stand ?" The Annual herein quoted was sent to institutional men 



252 Life of R. C. Buckner 

and many others all over America, and brought a feeling of 
relief. 

It was shown in this Annual by stubborn facts that "orphans' 
homes have a right to exist, Christian people have a right to 
establish Christian institutions for the care and education of their 
own children and others properly committed to them, and not 
even a State or National government will dare interfere, lest 
some constitutional law be infringed." 

Dr. W. W. Landrum, Louisville, Kentucky, in a letter to the 
author of this book, says the people of the other States looked 
on Dr. Buckner as the "best man in Texas." This fact, coupled 
with that other fact that the Buckner Home was a success, gave 
to his opinion "peculiar weight." 

A Grateful Company. — We insert some extracts from letters 
received by Dr. Buckner: 

"You surely ought to know whereof you speak." — D. S. 
Case, Superintendent, Gilbert Home, Winsted, Connecticut. 

"I agree with you that a well-regulated institution is prefer- 
able to the majority of private homes." — Mrs. G. B. Miles, 
Children's Home Association, San Diego, California. 

"Report of your Home has been received. I thank you. * * * 
Orphans' homes have a right to exist." — R. P. Gardner, Super- 
intendent, New Hampshire Orphans' Home. 

"The position you take and the reply you make I consider 
absolutely correct." — H. Mauser, Pacific Hebrew Orphan Asylum, 
San Francisco. 

"We must be aggressive, and can afford to be, as your report 
demonstrates." — R. A. Sonn, Hebrew Orphans' Home, Atlanta, 
Georgia. 

"I cannot express my indignation over the move in regard to 
tearing apart and tearing down the institutions doing the noble 
work of your (Buckner) Orphans Home." — J. A. Smith, Secre- 
tary, Orphan Asylum, Newark, New Jersey. 

Dr. Buckner was the recipient of such a shower of letters 



Children's Bureau Bill 253 

of like tenor as the foregoing as was amazing. Among those 
who wrote him and stood with him in the early months of 1909 
were Rev. J. R. Carter, Baptist Orphanage, Jackson, Mississippi ; 
Dr. L. B. Bernstein, Hebrew Sheltering Society, New York City ; 
Mrs. Jennie Clark, Bell Haven Home, Luling, Texas; C. E. 
McGhee, Colored Orphans' Home, Huntington, Virginia; Th. 
Gunderson, Lutheran Orphans' Home, Beloit, Iowa; Rev. C. J. 
Gramer, Bethlehem Orphan Asylum, College Point, New York; 
Rev. E. Knappe, Lutheran Orphan Home, Waverly, Iowa ; Mrs. 
J. M. Moffett, Children's Home, Bay City, Michigan; M. L. 
Kesler, Baptist Orphanage, Thomasville, North Carolina. 

Without question, Dr. Buckner's stand and his vigorous de- 
fense of well-regulated institutions, covering twenty pages of 
his Annual, made a deep impression on philanthropic workers 
and the publicly generally. And institutions survived, moving 
prosperously on in the sunlight of God's approving smiles. 



CHAPTER XXXVI 

AN ADDRESS — DEFINITIONS AND ADVOCACY OF ORPHANS' 
HOMES AS INSTITUTIONS 

(Congress passed the Children's Bureau Bill early in 1909. 
There were home-finding advocates active, holding meetings and 
forming societies. A Home-finding State Conference was held 
in Fort Worth, Texas, attended by able men from other States. 
Dr. Buckner's address which follows was delivered before the 
Conference, November 11, and which was requested for publi- 
cation by the body, received the endorsement of such valued citi- 
zens as Judge John C. West of Waco, and George A. Jackson 
of Dallas. Stenographically reported by Miss Eva Claude, a 
ward of Buckner Orphans Home.) 

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen: I am here at the 
initiative of excellent Christian men, workers for the cause of 
charity, with whose special convictions and plan of work my own 
views are not in harmony, and this they well know. Until over 
the telephone yesterday I told my friend. Dr. H. H. Hart of 
New York, who was visiting Buckner Orphans Home in my 
absence, that I would make earnest efforts to get here, I had 
not seen how I might come. I do not know that Dr. Hart is in 
the room. (Dr. Hart, rising: "I am here.") Glad to see you, 
Dr. Wines. ("Hart, if you please.") Excuse the mistake. I 
met Dr. Hart and Dr. Fred Wines some years ago at the same 
great national charity convention, and I sometimes get their 
names mixed. But I must be careful and not get wines too near 
the heart. (Laughter.) 

I wanted to see Dr. Hart in person. But until about dark 
last night I was engaged with some gentlemen arranging for the 
publication of a great religious newspaper, as a missionary enter- 

254 



An Address 255 

prise. We have put our money into it with the understanding 
that no dividends will ever be declared. The people who know 
me understand that at this stage of life I am not engaging in 
anything secular. (Applause.) It has been a long time since I 
have handled a dollar except to pass it on. All of my real estate 
is my burial lot in the cemetery. 

Orphans' Homes. — Asylums for orphans, or houses where 
they are to be kept temporarily, are not orphans' homes. An 
orphans' home proper is no more an asylum than is the building 
in which your wife and children live and are protected. I will 
proceed further and say, as the result of thirty-three years of 
observation and experience in this work, the majority of private 
homes into which we can place orphan children are not equal, 
by great odds, to the right kind of orphans' homes. I could give 
you scores of demonstrations from my own observation, and 
from facts narrated in numerous letters I have on file from the 
managers of institutions and benevolent workers in nearly all the 
States of America. 

The Right to Exist. — An orphans' home has the right to exist 
and attend to its own business in its own way, subject always 
and only to the police regulations of the State and to the inspec- 
tion of health officers ; as much right to exist and manage its 
own business as has a private family. The State of Texas has 
established an orphans' home at Corsicana, and no other State 
or Government or nation has the right to bid her nay. And the 
State has a right to conduct this home in her own way, and is 
fully competent to do so. The Masonic Orphans' Home near 
Fort Worth, the Odd Fellows' Home near Corsicana, the Pres- 
byterian Home in a neighboring county, the Methodist Home at 
Waco and the Juliett-Fowler of Dallas County, and every other 
properly organized and conducted orphans' home has each the 
right to exist and attend to its own affairs; the natural right, 
the social right, the political right and the legal right, each under 
its own rules and regulations, and its own everything else. 



256 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Buckner Orphans Home. — I judge you would not regard it as 
out of place if I dwell on some particular things with reference 
to the Buckner Home, its origin, the foundations on which it 
stands and claims to have a right to stand, and the work and 
principles that characterize it. 

It was founded right. It did not set out haphazard. The 
first meeting to start it a-going was a convention of Baptist 
deacons. They gave the proposition an emphatic endorsement 
and resolved that it ought to be. (By the way, this home makes 
no distinction among orphan children, whether their parents 
were Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, Catholics, Jews, Gen- 
tiles, Infidels or what not. And it knows no boundary lines.) 
Our people regard it as the duty of deacons of the churches to 
look after the poor, none of whom are more dependent than 
orphan children and widows. In the meeting of deacons referred 
to, they thought it right to put their heads and hearts together in 
a practical way and care for a larger number of children and 
with better economy than to hand out to them, scattered here 
and there, scanty provisions, half-worn clothes, as it were, with a 
kind of kid-glove charity. 

These deacons did for years keep up an annual meeting 
called the Deacons' Convention. But now for several years it 
has not been regarded as necessary to meet annually, except as 
to the Board of Directors. Before anything was done in regard 
to opening the Orphans Home, we obtained a charter from the 
State of Texas, and now we stand upon the rights given by the 
State in that charter. The charter gives us the legal right to 
exist and defines the main purposes, privileges, duties and obli- 
gations assumed and authorized. Until we violate that charter, 
no man or goverment has any right to interfere by any kind of 
organization, agency or individual effort. We like to be visited, 
our doors are open. As to the visit of my friend, Dr. Hart, my 
only regret is that I could not be with him in person. 

How Children Enter. — I will tell something about whence they 



An Address 257 

come and whither they go. For example, we have children sent 
to us by the Woodmen of the World and by other fraternal 
orders. And children have been laid at our door by the hand 
of Providence with the voice of God saying, "Take this child 
and nurse it for me." God has provided that "the destitute shall 
be put in an house." We have them in several houses. Some 
we have by the expressed will of the last dying parent: "Send 
my child to Buckner Orphans Home and have it reared and edu- 
cated there." Several have said this in their last conscious 
moment. Some go so far as to say, "Until it reaches its major- 
ity." A girl was sent to us that way, and a woman said : "Kate 
has a right to better surroundings and education than she will 
get there." I replied: "How do you know that, madam?" We 
reared and educated her to young womanhood. Then she went 
two years to a missionary training school, and choosing to do 
missionary work in the Home where she was raised, she fills an 
important position. No sparkling diamond on the richest 
woman's brooch is purer than she is, giving her life in mission 
work to 600 orphan children. (Note. — This refers to Miss Kate 
Lacy, who has since been engaged as a teacher in a United 
States industrial school for full-blood Indian girls in Oklahoma.) 

Churches Send Them To Us. — I mention a case. A church 
in East Texas expressed a desire that we would take some depen- 
dent children from her community. We accepted them. The 
church had a right to ask us to take them, and we had the right 
to accept them. 

Juvenile Courts Send Them To Us. — Children are now in 
Buckner Orphans Home by action of the courts that exercised 
their legal right. They did what they thought best. The proper 
courts can demand such children back, if thought best, when 
proper development and other good effects shall so suggest. 

Governments Place Them With Us. — Two children were sent 
from the City of Mexico by Mexican authorities, acting in con- 
junction with the United States Consul. Did not the govern- 



258 Life of R. C. Buckner 

ment of Mexico and the United States Consul have the right to 
ask us to take them? And did not we have the right to accept 
them? They reached Dallas wearing badges plainly lettered 
"Buckner Orphans Home," but were hidden away twenty-eight 
hours. We searched for them in vain. I went to the mayor. 
He failed to locate them. Then I said: "Those children were 
sent to us by the Mexican government and by the United States 
Consul and they must be found." They were found. 

Guardians Send Them. — Sometimes I am myself asked to 
become a child's guardian. But this Home with its charter is 
guardian enough. A boy ran away, and the courts appointed a 
man his "guardian." I understood the case and the people in the 
neighborhood from whence the boy came understood it. I 
brought suit against that "guardian" and demanded the return 
of the child. The matter was investigated before the same judge. 
He reversed his own decision, and I got the child. 

A seventeen-year-old girl came, bringing her younger brothers 
and sisters. This was three years after the death of the parents. 
We had agreed to admit them all but the oldest girl herself. 
Sunday came and the children were getting ready for Sunday 
School, but she was found crying. Some one asked, "What is 
the matter?" She replied, "I have no suitable clothes for Sun- 
day School." The other girls divide their scanty wardrobe with 
her, and with a brighter face she goes to Sunday School. She 
was afterward admitted as a ward and the younger children are 
not separated from their older sister. She could not read nor 
write. But she could when she left later, and filled the position 
of matron in another orphans' home, filling it well. (Cries, 
"Amen! Amen! Amen!") I believe not in orphan brothers and 
sisters being scattered, one here, another there, and another 
yonder. 

A little boy came from New York in a carload of orphans 
who were given to families in Texas. The family taking this 
boy tired of him and asked to place him in Buckner Orphans 



An Address 259 

Home. After his arrival the little fellow queried: "What kind 
of a place is this?" I said, "An Orphans Home." Then he 
asked, "Do they treat a fellow well?" I told him we did. Then 
said he : "I will tell you how they treated me. When my mamma 
and papa died, they took my little sister off and gave her to a 
family. I can never find her. Oh, I wish I could find my sister ! 
They sent me one way and my sister another." We have never 
learned of his sister's whereabouts. 

What Do We Do for Themf — Protect them. If there is 
anything an orphan child needs it is protection. ("Amen!") I 
have known policemen in this city to exercise vigorously their 
authority in protecting orphan girls from iniquitous surroundings. 
I withhold names, but have them on my books. Orphans need 
protection. ("Amen! Amen!") My brothers, while we have 
never had a social scandal in the Home, I know of some who 
have "gone to the bad" from private families. A girl from Indi- 
ana was given to a private family and afterwards sent to an 
orphanage in Texas. It was too late. She drifted into a life 
of iniquity. Another case : A girl was given to a private family. 
Her surroundings were bad. The neighbors rose up and appealed 
to us to admit her in Buckner Orphans Home. The appeal was 
declined. We have children in Fort Worth, in Dallas, in Chi- 
cago, in New York, in Mexico City who were protected in 
Buckner Orphans Home, now worthy people. 

We Feed Them and Clothe Them. — These are important, but 
not supreme. Food and raiment are trivial compared with char- 
acter, noble character, pure, vigorous manhood and womanhood. 
It is true that we feed and clothe them, but it is also true that we 
educate them. Our graded school is as good as any in Dallas. 
Our superintendent was once superintendent of the schools in 
Dallas. We teach them music, typewriting, stenography, social 
correspondence, various industries, and have eight teachers de- 
voted to literary instruction. A trinity of obligations impels us 
to train our children in mind, morals and industries. We teach 



260 Life of R. C. Buckner 

them almost everything. Everything about housekeeping, sew- 
ing, cooking, farming, stock-raising, electricity, steam plant and 
heat system. There is not a family in sixteen States that could 
or would teach them all the things they learn at Buckner 
Orphans Home. We furnished another orphans' home with a 
boy whom they paid $75 a month to manage their electric and 
heating plant. He got every bit of his education in Buckner 
Orphans Home. 

Where Do They Go? — Last night my little stenographer 
copied the following list of professions and industries in which 
our former wards are now engaged: "School teachers, music 
teachers, preachers, doctors, stenographers and typewriters, grad- 
uate nurses, teachers of stenography, teachers of social corre- 
spondence, electricians, civil engineers, firemen on railroads, loco- 
motive engineers, railway bridge foremen, railroad office secre- 
taries, railroad ticket agents, conductors, bookkeepers, telephone 
line constructors, operators of telephone systems, United States 
civil service employees, soldiers in the army and navy, navy elec- 
tricians, sailors, postmasters, money order clerks, foremen in 
factories, express agents, nickelplaters, harnessmakers, photog- 
raphers, blacksmiths, plumbers, hotelkeepers, sailboat captains, 
salesmen in mercantile establishments, cotton ginners, matrons 
in institutions, Sunday School teachers, farmers, stock-raisers." 

The main effort of an orphan institution should be to make 
well-trained men and women out of their boys and girls, well 
trained in mind, morals and industries. One of our girls gets 
$75 a month working right here in Fort Worth because she is 
qualified. 

As to getting rid of our wards, I will say that we dispose of 
many of our girls at the marriage altar. On a rug in the girls' 
parlor have stood many of our orphan daughters beside their 
accepted ones, and the two, before God and their associates, have 
pledged themselves to live together until death shall separate 
them. 



An Address 261 

Now my brethren in the cause of charity, from the depths 
of my heart I wish your every institution Godspeed. I wish 
each of you happiness in life and reward in heaven. (A voice: 
"Great will be your reward, old brother.") But we have rewards 
here, and whatever additional reward God may see fit to give 
us will be all of grace and not of debt. ("Amen ! Amen !") 

The children gather round me sometimes, and I say I am 
richer than Rockefeller, richer than Carnegie, rich in orphan 
children. I remarked the other day that I had outlived nearly 
all my old friends. "But," said one of my orphan daughters, 
"you have not outlived your young friends, Father Buckner." 
That brought tears. 

But I must desist. (Voices: "Go on, we love to hear you." 
"Go on." "Go on.") Thank you. Let us have no jars or dis- 
cords. Let us compare notes honorably and fairly as upright, 
conscientious men, working in the cause of charity, and let us 
lift together. I have many a load that I could not carry alone. 
Sometimes a little money helps, sometimes a "God bless you," 
and sometimes a handshake. 

I was reared on a farm, and often go back there for illustra- 
tions. I learned at old-fashioned log-rollings what it is to lift 
together. Let us lift together in the work of helping orphans. 
Oh, this problem of child-saving, this work of stepping into the 
shoes, as it were, of the dead father and mother and taking care 
of their children. Oh, the problem as to how to do it best for 
the children themselves and for the community. It is a grave 
problem. Let us lift together. Let none be contrary. I have 
been in this work thirty-three years and have some convictions 
of my own on which I feel to be as solid as the rock Gibraltar. 
Yet I am open to conviction. One might drill into the rock 
Gibraltar, insert dynamite and at least burst off some particles. 
You may drill into my convictions and insert dynamite enough 
to somewhat scatter them. But I stand on my convictions. 
(The president: "You are a grand old man.") If so, then like 



262 Life of R. C. Buckner 

an old grand piano, the polish rubbed off by repeated careless 
touch of many children's fingers, the strings rusty and the keys 
discolored by age. I don't talk much of my age. On the third 
of next January I will be 77, and ten years further on I will 
be 87. But God being my helper, I will still be active in the 
work. My shoulders are not tired of the burden, my heart is not 
faint, my faith does not waver, and no clouds shall dim the light 
of hope that cheers my spirit. God bless you all. 



CHAPTER XXXVII 



FAITH AND WORKS 



Faith sees the tree and its fruit before the hand plants, and 
then bids the hand plant. And God, too, commands, "Whatso- 
ever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might. " It is a sin 
not to multiply talents. The one-talent man was "wicked and 
slothful." R. C. Buckner saw the great Orphans Home, tree 
and fruit, before he planted, and then to the planting and culti- 
vating he linked his life. "Can you think of Buckner without 
thinking of orphan children?" This is the question of President 
S. P. Brooks. But then R. C. Buckner is by no means a one- 
talent man. 

In 1908, President S. P. Brooks, who was such a warm friend 
of Dr. Buckner that he would walk across the State to do him a 
favor, ventured into print with the suggestion that the Doctor 
was "absorbed in orphan work," and with the hint that he had 
not given careful attention to education and other things. This 
stirred R. C. Buckner to the depths and he came out in the open : 

"Now as to my being 'too much absorbed in orphan work to 
give any particular attention to education,' I will be excused in 
some statements that might otherwise be regarded as self-praise. 

"I have been, and am still, in active sympathy and cooperation 
with all our schools. I have often made donations to them in the 
names of others, and have given $100 in response to each of 
many appeals. I have always in some way seconded every special 
effort set on foot for their support and betterment. I am not so 
'absorbed in orphan work' as to shut myself in to it, or be willing 
that anybody should so circumscribe me. 

"I was among the most active in originating Baylor Medical 

263 



264 Life of R. C. Buckner 

College, and was the first to give as much as $100 to the science 
building where it was to domicile. I stood for the money to run 
the Baptist Memorial Sanitarium during its first year, and sev- 
eral times during the progress of the building I furnished the 
money, $1,000, $2,000, without interest, to bridge over and keep 
the work going. I was the first to place in the hands of the 
Medical College a hospital for clinics — the Children's Hospital. 
I have never faltered or stood back from any of our enterprises. 
To the limit of my means I have given. 

"I have given to the erection of many houses of worship in 
Texas, over $1,200 in one instance, to help our people hold a 
house, the loss of which would have been disastrous. Orphan 
work is my meat and my drink. But it does not shrivel me, dry 
me up, or narrow me down. Nor does it swell me up. 

"For many years I have been the active state secretary of the 
National Conference of Charities and Correction and an active 
member of the National Prison Congress. I am fairly active in 
the Southern Baptist Convention and in the Baptist General Con- 
vention. I pull, but never kick." — "Baptist Standard," September 
10, 1908. 

The Mrs. M. B. Roots Cottage. — A number of commendable 
deeds stand to the credit of Dr. Buckner that have never come 
before the eye of the public. Not a few have come to the knowl- 
edge of his biographer, with some such restrictions as, "See thou 
tell no man." 

A self-explanatory document is here permitted that will be 
appreciated by the friends of Buckner Orphans Home: 

"Dallas, Texas, September 20, 1907. — To the Board of Direc- 
tors of Buckner Orphans Home and all others whom it may 
concern : The fourth cottage north in the row of cottages for the 
aged, on the west side of Home Avenue, and about opposite the 
concrete building occupied by the Providence Nursery Depart- 
ment, was paid for from my own personal funds as a home for 
my sister, Mrs. M. B. Roots, during her natural life. For that 



Faith and Works 265 

time it is her own property, to be occupied and controlled by 
herself without interference ; but after that it is to be, and to be 
so regarded and used, the property of Buckner Orphans Home, 
as one of the system of cottages for aged people. R. C. Buckner." 

"Witness: Miss Lula Mae Whitehead. ,, 

Mrs. Root has since gone to her Eden Home and the cottage 
is the property of Buckner Orphans Home. She donated to the 
Home the furniture, which was her own private property. 

Faith In God and Men. — God and good men cooperate. As 
the leaders of world activity believe this, and show their faith by 
their works, the world moves Godward. Faith in God and in 
religious people, coupled with increasing work, built Buckner 
Orphans Home. Belief in God, who said, "They that are sick 
need a physician," as well as in medical science and medical men, 
moved Dr. Buckner to join himself with some 400 physicians of 
America and the world in "the National Association for the 
Study of Epilepsy and the Care and Treatment of Epileptics." 
In this association in 1905 were forty-nine Southern men and 
four Southern women. The association had six members in 
Texas. They were R. C. Buckner, Buckner Orphans Home ; Dr. 
A. B. Gardner, President Texas State Medical Association, Bell- 
ville; Dr. H. A. West, Secretary Texas State Medical Associa- 
tion, Galveston; Dr. B. M. Worsham, Superintendent Lunatic 
Asylum, Austin ; Dr. S. S. White, Terrell, and Dr. John Preston, 
Abilene. In 1905, when this Association was doing a work of 
world interest, R. C. Buckner, G. W. Cutler, M. D., Arlington, 
Massachusetts, and Chaplains J. A. Mosley and Alfred F. Pratt, 
Craig Colony for Epileptics, in the State of New York, were the 
only preachers on the entire membership roll. 

American Baptist Hospital Association. — The first "Baptist 
Hospital Association" in the w r orld came into being in 1884 in 
St. Louis, Missouri, and consisted of Dr. W. H. Mayfield, Mrs. 
Mayfield, and their little son Willie. And to sanitarium work 
Dr. Mayfield has given his life. Another pioneer in sanitarium 



266 Life of R. C. Buckner 

work was the founder of the Buckner Home Children's Hospital. 
Those two men, R. C. Buckner and W. H. Mayfield, demon- 
strated that the healing of diseases through medical science, if 
done by praying men, is a God-appointed means of bringing souls 
to Christ, and should go hand in hand with the preaching of 
the gospel. They became fast friends. Together they talked 
on these things and planned a nation-wide association, which 
began life at the meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in 
Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 1906. Nearly 100 brethren, every man 
of them a pillar in Zion, became members. R. C. Buckner was 
elected president; M. P. Hunt, Louisville, Kentucky, vice-presi- 
dent; W. H. Mayfield, St. Louis, secretary; Rev. T. W. Tate, 
St. Louis, assistant secretary; and M. J. Breaker, St. Louis, 
treasurer. The immediate effect of the forming of this Associa- 
tion was to give a new impetus to the great wave of sentiment for 
building sanitaria. Soon there was a Baptist hospital at Jack- 
son, Mississippi, and another at Muskogee, Oklahoma. Friends 
of Texas Baptist Memorial Sanitarium at Dallas having already 
decided to build, went forward and put up their imposing, well- 
appointed fireproof buildings. At Houston, Texas, was erected 
a sanitarium, which became the pride of South Texas. They 
have been built in other States and beyond the seas at Laichow 
Fu, China, and Huchow, China. The aim is "to lift up the eyes 
and tongues on all lands and belt the earth with these houses 
of love and mercy/' and more than a half-hundred of them have 
been built. 

Dr. J. M. Oxner, member of this Association and medical mis- 
sionary at Ping Tu, North China, had a vision that lifted him 
into the heavenlies : "The American Baptist Hospital Association, 
organized out of the hearts of two great men, Dr. Buckner of 
Texas and Dr. Mayfield of Missouri, I believe to be the founda- 
tion work in the hands of God for the beginning of great things. 
My neighboring city here in China (Laichow Fu) is soon to be 
blessed with a hospital through its work. Also one is to be built 



Faith and Works 267 

in India. We must expect hospitals to be built for God all over 
the mission fields in heathen lands and in the papal world. I 
must expect to see scores of millions of souls go up to heaven 
from the four quarters of the earth through the Christian influ- 
ence of sanitarium work. Under God and through Christ noth- 
ing is impossible." — "Baptist Standard," April 25, 1907. It was a 
vision on Mount Nebo, and Dr. Oxner was not, for God took him. 

The R. C. Buckner Knob. — Dr. Buckner is appreciated by his 
brethren all over the South as few men are. This will be seen 
when we read the story of the naming of five mountain peaks 
at Ridgecrest, North Carolina. Ridgecrest is among the most 
delightful summer resorts in America, a little paradise, high up 
in the picturesque Blue Ridge mountains. On the grounds are 
five charming peaks named for five princes among modern Bap- 
tists. During the past ico years the names of Baptist leaders 
have been legion. It is therefore no small compliment that one 
of those peaks should bear the name of R. C. Buckner. 

Dr. B. W. Spilman, known over American as among the best 
Sunday school evangelists of his generation, general secretary of 
Ridgecrest Assembly, in a letter dated July 28, 1912, thus writes 
to the author of this biography: "We named for Dr. Buckner 
in our grounds here at Ridgecrest one of the small mountain 
peaks. There are five of them. We named one for Rev. Colum- 
bus H. Durham, as being the man who typified as well as any 
man in the world the propagation of the gospel in our home 
land. Another of the peaks is named for John A. Broadus, the 
Baptist educator. Another is for C. H. Spurgeon, the great 
preacher. Another for William Carey, the foreign missionary. 
When we wish to tell visitors the story of Baptist philanthropy 
we point them to the Buckner Knob and tell the story. It may 
be of interest to know that Dr. Buckner was the first man to 
make a direct donation to the endowment work of our Assembly. 
He paid $100 into my hands some three years ago, which was the 
first donation to our grounds." There is a well-kept children's 



268 Life of R. C. Buckner 

playground called the Buckner playground at the base of the R. C. 
Buckner Knob, where happy children play and sing every sum- 
mer. The fact of this children's playground under the shadow 
of the Buckner Knob is to Dr. Buckner a great joy. 

Tri-State Conference. — During 1909, Dr. Buckner attended 
the Tri-State Conference of Orphan Workers at Atlanta, 
Georgia. His visit was taken note of by the "Christian Sun" 
as follows : "Texas was represented by perhaps the oldest man 
in service in the South. 'Dear Father Buckner/ as he is lovingly 
called, is seventy-six years old and has been at the head of 
Buckner Orphans Home since its beginning about thirty years 
ago. From his long experience and deeply religious character 
we learned many useful lessons that will qualify us in this respon- 
sible work of saving orphan children. His orphanage is now 
accommodating 600 children. They have a veritable village and 
1,000 acres of land." Dr. Buckner had profound attention while 
he addressed this conference on "Thirty-three Years in Orphan 
Work." 

On the Lookout for Orphans. — Here is a good place to empha- 
size that Dr. Buckner was always on the lookout for orphan chil- 
dren. When his Home was too much crowded to receive another 
child, he has been heard to say that he would give up a corner 
in his own room before a dependent child without father or 
mother should be turned away. He said this in a letter to that 
very excellent pastor, R. B. Morgan, of Memphis, Texas, August, 
191 4. He has said it in his correspondence with others. 

Always on the lookout, he let no opportunity pass to offer 
home and bread to all children orphaned by public calamities, 
such as cyclones, conflagrations and earthquakes. Reference has 
been made to this in other parts of this book. In his files are 
many letters received in response to persons to care for such 
orphans. This letter is taken at random from among the others : 

"The Citizens' Bank, Redwater, Texas, May 8, 1914. Dr. 
R. C. Buckner, Dallas, Texas. Dear Sir: Your telegram re- 



Faith and Works 269 

ceived. We are almost wiped from the face of the earth. But 
am thankful to state that there were no fatalities. Consequently 
there is no need in the capacity occupied by you. However, the 
appreciation of your kind offer is without bounds. — R. W. Hanks, 
Cashier." The town had suffered from a cyclone. 

Faith Does Not Easily Give Up. — It is sad that any child 
reared in Buckner Orphans Home should, after going away, give 
its benefactor the gravest concern. But among thousands, all of 
them given the best training possible, some may not do right. 
The following excerpt from a letter lifts the curtain and shows 
how faith follows on and continues to work : 

"Dear E : My heart is deeply pained. I love you. Twice 

before I have felt it my duty to warn you and put you on your 
guard. I do not see that it has benefited you. I do not accuse 
you of sin. But your imprudence is causing much talk. I need 
not mention the imprudent things, whether in dress, conversation, 
telephoning, writing, buggy-riding or other things. Giddy, gay, 
unrestrained liberties are leading you too far. Just a step fur- 
ther and the orphan child will plunge into a vortex of ruin. I 
beg to say in tearful tenderness, yet in manly firmness, that you 
have cut yourself off from visiting the Home or writing to any- 
one here save to me. My ears and heart are ever open to you. 
If you shall see your error, amend and establish your reputation 
as a modest, consistent young lady, I shall again be glad to extend 
you these privileges. This letter pains me as if its words were 
written with my own heart's blood instead of ink. Ask God about 
it. Your same old affectionate Father Buckner." 

Later came a communication telling "Father Buckner" of 
her marriage, coupled with an invitation to visit her in her 
happy home. 

Buckner Home Academy. — Faith hungers for more faith, and 
prays, "Lord, increase our faith." As when the vine of many 
years, with branches reaching out in all directions, yields more 
abundant fruit than was possible in its baby days, so it is with 



270 Life of R. C. Buckner 

faith. The Pauline hope of entering the "regions beyond" was 
based on increased faith at Corinth, and Pauline encomium was 
called forth by "work of faith" at Thessalonica. Increased faith 
of the management of Buckner Orphans Home peered into the 
regions beyond year by year, and entered, as the reader knows. 
Then, after a while, stood before the eye of faith a spacious, 
magnificent Buckner Home Academy with rooms for the Acad- 
emy superintendent and the different grades, music rooms, large 
rooms for library and museum, rooms for office and with elegant 
chapel seating 2,000 people. The children in the Home were 
made to see it, and months before dirt was broken they met and 
"Resolved, That an Academy is needed. The boys need the 
rooms now occupied by the school and school needs more suitable 
quarters." 

Presently, December, 1907, we see in the "Baptist Standard" : 
"Necessity is laid upon me. Woe is me if I delay longer. So 
now I beg that all who can spare $100 for the Academy Building 
send it along at once. For building money, my son, Hal F. Buck- 
ner, is traveling. Please receive him and hear him, for his cause 
is worthy." — R. C. Buckner. After a while, late in the year of 
our Lord, 1908, we read in the "Dallas News" : "The best build- 
ing on the hill is now in process of construction. The walls of 
the first story are of reinforced monolithic concrete and are equal 
to any building in the city. This, the first story, is divided into 
school rooms, well lighted, steam heated and fireproof. The sec- 
ond story, of easy approach, is for chapel and Sunday school 
purposes. It is of brick and trimmed with blocks of concrete. 
The building is 85 by 105 feet, inside measurements." It is 
worth $60,000. An ornament to the Home and the county, it was 
dedicated, free of debt, January 3, 1909. 

Manna Hall. — There is always "territory beyond." Faith 
sees it, and then it is the duty of the hand to stretch forth and 
take it. Sure there was rejoicing and thanksgiving, and should 
have been, when the stately Buckner Home Academy was dedi- 



Faith and Works 271 

cated. But the builder was not satisfied. There was no com- 
fortable place for the children to eat their meals. Their dining 
room was in a long, narrow basement, where they were crowded 
almost to suffocation in warm weather. 

The best dining room in the world for orphans was planned, 
96 by 126 feet, convenient to both the Boys' Building and the 
Girls' Building. It was built and was named "Manna Hall" at 
the suggestion of Rev. Hal F. Buckner, now Baptist missionary 
in Canton, China. It is on a solid concrete foundation, deep in 
the earth, and is built of reinforced concrete and brick. All 
columns, beams, girders, joists and the entire framework are of 
steel. The floor is concrete. Also a large balcony overhead on 
the west side, stretching full length of the building from north 
to south. It has 105 windows, is warmed by twenty-nine radi- 
ators, cooled by electric fans and lighted by thirty- four electric 
lights. It was dedicated January 3, 19 13, on Dr. Buckner's 
eightieth birthday. 

As the day of dedication approached, former inmates and 
their friends proposed to prepare and bring abundant table sup- 
plies, decorate Manna Hall and load all tables. Then the follow- 
ing card was sent to many hundreds of friends: 

"A Card Peculiar, in Advance — Eightieth Birthday Greetings 
of R. C. Buckner, January 3, 1913. 

"Jehovah hath abundantly blessed me all the years of my pil- 
grimage up to this, my eightieth natal day, and the world has 
been good to me all the while. Friends of the dependent have 
stood faithfully by me for the last thirty-five years in founding, 
sustaining and enlarging Buckner Orphans Home. This work, 
in addition to other things, has kept me busy, but has filled my 
heart with joy and hath strewn life's pathway with sunshine. 
More than 6,600 dependents have been cared for. 

"I enter upon my eighty-first year, hale, hearty and hopeful, 
and this must be my busiest and most successful year in orphan 
work unless other years to come shall exceed it. 



272 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"Manna Hall, than which there is not a prettier or more com- 
modious dining hall in the world for orphan children, is to be 
dedicated on that day, and YOU are invited to be with the thou- 
sands of friends who promise their presence. Valuable personal 
presents have been offered me for that day, but I respectfully 
and positively decline any and all personal gifts. Help the 
orphans! Many have promised to aid by check or otherwise in 
advance in a special effort already set on foot by others to secure 
to the credit of that day at least $80,000, to be used for the exclu- 
sive benefit of the Orphans Home, whether on endowment, the 
payment of debts or current expenses, as donors may direct. 

"But the main thing in this advanced birthday greeting is to 
invite you personally to visit Buckner Orphans Home, January 
3, 19 1 3, at any hour between 9 a. m. and 5 p. m., and to be with 
us all day if possible. I shall be rejoiced to greet you. Distin- 
guished speakers will be present and friends say there will be an 
abundance of supplies on the tables of their own sending or 
bringing. Room and comfort for thousands of visitors. Many 
are coming from all over Texas and some from beyond. 

"It is impossible to reach each friend by special card. I 
beg that you consider yourself personally invited. Arrangements 
are being made for excursion rates over the railroads." 

Dedication of Manna Hall. — The third day of January, 1913, 
was high day at Buckner Orphans Home. Dr. Buckner kept 
open house all day. The day was perfect. The mid-winter sun 
rose with springtime warmth and suffered not a cloud to cast 
shadow on hilltop or dale. Too, the Southern gulf sent warmth 
on the wings of breezes, and during the entire golden day winter 
was wholly suspended. 

By ten o'clock visitors were arriving in automobiles and on 
trains, and multitudes of the finest people in the State and beyond 
were swarming about the beautiful lawns. Their ranks swelled 
to 2,000. They were full of good cheer, and to them Buckner 
Orphans Home seemed a charmed spot. And indeed they were 



Faith and Works 273 

in paradise, everywhere greeting one another and greeting the 
650 neatly-attired Buckner orphans. 

"Where is Dr. Buckner?" This was the question on many 
lips. "We must see Dr. Buckner — bless his soul — and shake his 
hand." They found him. At eleven o'clock the spacious chapel 
accommodating 2,250 worshippers was full and overflowing. The 
Home Chorus Class of 100 trained orphans sang hymns of praise 
to God, and the great assembly joined in. R. H. Coleman of 
the "Baptist Standard" called on George W. McCall of Oklahoma 
to lead in prayer. Then stood George W. Truett and read from 
the Book of God: "And Moses was 120 years old when he died; 
his eye was not dimmed nor his natural force abated." Pointing 
to Dr. Buckner, Pastor Truett said : "This is the Moses of Texas. 
Three springs of influence made the life of Moses endless; he 
lived under God's ruling companionship, linked his life with one 
great cause and linked it to the future. If we would be always 
young, the way is here pointed out— a life surrendered to God, 
a life linked to a great cause or institution, a life for the future. 
Such was the life of Moses, and such is the life of R. C. Buckner. 
And now we are to dedicate 'Beautiful Manna Hall,' where 1,200 
people can eat bread from heaven at one sitting. There is just 
one man among us fit to offer the dedicatory prayer, and that 
man is R. C. Buckner." 

The assembly stood with bowed heads while the patriarch of 
orphan children gave Manna Hall back to God. To the appeal, 
"Oh, that Manna Hall may be never without bread !" 2,000 hearts 
responded, "Amen!" 

A cablegram, "Boundless Love," from the "Buckner Colony" 
in China was read. A shower of congratulatory letters was 
announced and some of them were read. 

Then straightway the princely company repaired to Manna 
Hall. And Manna Hall groaned under the weight of good things. 
The great dinner — bread, turkey, chicken, ham, cake, pies, fruit, 
hot coffee and pure milk — had been prepared largely by Dallas 



274 Life of R. C. Buckner 

County Baptist Association. It was served by former inmates of 
Buckner Orphans Home. The happy orphan family was ar- 
ranged about long, appetizing spreads, while their guests were 
similarly disposed by fifties and hundreds. There was the sound 
of the organ in the balcony, and a praise-song. Thanks was 
given. Like unto occasions when Jesus fed the multitudes, all 
were filled. But instead of twelve baskets full, there was enough 
left to feed the orphans three days. 

A call had been made to give suitable recognition to Dr. 
Buckner's eightieth birthday by contributing $80,000 towards his 
Orphans Home work. The response was liberal, coming in along 
through several months. Though the donors did not always so 
state, it is believed that of the $108,000 received during the 
year, the amount intended to go to the credit of that day reached 
$80,000. Many thousands were left by the visitors at the dedi- 
cation. And after a day of soul communion, they bade us "Good- 
bye" and departed to their own homes. Their benedictions and 
benefactions abide. 

Perennial Youth 

By Elder W. P. Meroney, Bellevue, Texas 

The men who for the future live, 

In hope, in purpose strong, 
Some deed of service yet to give; 

Those men are young. 

The men who in the silent past 

Their hope, their all enfold, 
No service give unto the last ; 

Those men are old. 

Tis not grey hairs or weakn'd form, 

The line 'tween age and youth ; 
When purpose from the breast is torn, 

You're old in truth. 



Faith and Works 275 

While cause to live and work to do, 

In visions still you see, 
And faith makes deeds of love so true, 

You young shall be. 

To. R. C. Buckner, who, on his eightieth birthday, is still 
young in service for the fatherless and motherless child. 

The Dairy Farm. — Opportunities are obligations. The oppor- 
tunity came in 1912 to secure a well-improved dairy farm of 314 
acres, located right by the Home and on the great country pike 
leading into the city, so located as to be of priceless value, even as 
if created for Buckner Orphans Home. Dr. Buckner said: "I 
believe it was so created." It was purchased. A year earlier it 
could not have been purchased, and two hours later it would 
have been out of the Home's reach forever. The morning after 
its purchase it could have been sold at an advance of $3,000. It 
is worth $75,000 and is rapidly growing in value. It is paid for. 

Then in 1912 was erected an imposing two-story Buckner 
Home Supply House, through which all supplies for the Home 
are handled. In size it is 32 by 90 feet, and is fireproof. 

Also added in 1912 were 1,875 linear feet of cement walks; 
a large cement court east of the Girls' House, and covering the 
entire space between that building and Manna Hall, and, dividing 
the beautiful acreage lawns on the west front of all the stately 
buildings, i,ooofeet of gracefully curved, vibrolithic driveways. 

In 19 1 3 was added a cozy cottage, the home of Academy 
teachers, and in 1914 a large cement and brick addition to the 
Academy building. Adjacent to this new addition, and to the 
main Academy building at its east end is a spacious cement 
school court, where the assembled children form, preparatory 
to entering their various rooms for study and recitation. 

Elevated, majestic and self -confident, Buckner Orphans Home 
voices in silent eloquence the noblest sermon on Faith and Works 
ever preached to Texas Baptists. 



CHAPTER XXXVIII 

ONE BUSY LORD'S DAY — HOW IT PASSED 

The pastor of Home Baptist Church is Dr. R. C. Buckner. 
He is in his eightieth year, hale and hearty. His head is crowned 
with silver, while "his youth is renewed like the eagle's." 

This is July 28, 19 12. It is the day for the regular monthly 
meeting of Home Baptist Church, the fourth Lord's day in the 
month. The church is composed of orphan children, matrons, 
employees and a few others. How will Dr. Buckner spend this 
day? We will keep eye on him all day through. We will see 
what he does and hear what he says. 

Rises at Daybreak. — Pastor Buckner's bedroom is in the 
"Boys' Building" of Buckner Orphans Home. A window opens 
on the front lawn, admitting fresh air. In this room he has 
passed the night in quiet rest. The angel of Him who said, 
"Neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling," has kept 
vigil. 

At early dawn sleep is dismissed and his shepherd heart 
turns to his orphan family and to his spiritual flock. The on- 
coming hours, full of faith and effort, rise up before his mental 
vision. At 5 o'clock he is out of bed and pacing the grassy lawns 
with the elastic trip of youth. The eye looks up to God for 
approval and direction. 

During these moments vigor is inhaled with the fresh morn- 
ing air. And now comes the kiss of the new-born sun; while 
the eastern horizon is gold and glory, as it were, a glimpse of 
the ethereal world where God dwells. And assurance comes 
that God is near. 

In the Culinary Department. — The great family of 650 chil- 

276 



One Busy Lord's Day 277 

dren are already out of bed, jubilant, swarming, shouting, singing, 
as happy as any children anywhere. They are rinding their 
appetites. They must have a Lord's Day breakfast. And now 
we view their "Father Buckner" about the buildings, assisting 
the matrons, counseling the children and adjusting a score of 
problems. In his footstep is power and in his voice fatherly 
authority. 

Now he is in the kitchen giving directions, and in the great 
storehouse where supplies are given out to the young kitchen 
queens. They are baking, attending meats and other require- 
ments of the culinary science. Some are spreading the dining 
hall boards, while the morning air is laden with appetizing savor. 

Breakfast. — The breakfast bell calls, and hundreds of little 
children descend into the dining halls. (Manna Hall is not yet 
finished.) A beautiful praise song ascends to the Giver of 
"every good and perfect gift," one of the larger girls offers 
thanks, and all the happy family eat their morning meal with 
keenest relish. 

And likewise "Father Buckner" enjoys to the fullest extent 
his breakfast of fried chicken, toasted bread and a cup of coffee. 

Assembling in "Home" Chapel. — Breakfast is over and all 
are busy putting the rooms in order and getting ready for Sunday 
school and service. "Father Buckner" has found some dear 
children deeply concerned about their souls, and others happy 
in the Savior's love and anxious to join the church. A brief 
time with these anxious ones he labors. Then apart with God, 
for another brief period he is in meditation and prayer. It is 
holy time and the thoughts of hundreds turn to "Home" Chapel, 
where they have an appointment to meet God. The Chapel door 
is open at ten o'clock. We look in. We enter. A stately chair, 
gift of matrons and employees, sets near the sacred desk. En- 
graved on the chair are the words "Our Father Buckner." And 
in this chair "Our Father Buckner" is seated. He is using his 
small field glasses, viewing with unspeakable pleasure the coming 



278 Life of R. C. Buckner 

into the Chapel of hundreds of orphans with their matrons and 
Sunday school teachers. A long, beautiful column of girls, and 
another of boys file into the large open auditorium. About 
500 are gathered and the auditorium is but one- fourth full. Tidy 
and clean they are, with sparkling eyes and rosy cheeks, and the 
shepherd heart of "Father Buckner" is supremely happy. 

Family Talk. — Charming hymns, rendered as only the skilled 
voices of these trained orphans can render, resound throughout 
the great Chapel, while one seems to see the listening ear of God 
bending low. Now every head is bowed and the beloved 
orphans' Father offers prayer, full of praise and thanksgiving. 
On the wings of that prayer every orphan in the institution is 
borne aloft and presented before the Throne. And during that 
prayer some of them trust their Savior. 

A Family Talk, full of tenderness, follows. Orderly con- 
duct of the past week is mentioned and commended. Matrons 
and employees come in for their meed of praise. Rare privi- 
leges coming often to the family are noted, among them a visit 
and speech from Governor O. B. Colquit, and visit and speech 
from ex-Governor T. M. Campbell, both in the very recent past. 
Also rare spiritual blessings are named. Good counsel concludes 
the talk. 

Sunday School. — Sunday school is opened by the pastor. He 
reads with brief comment the parable of the wheat and the tares. 
Now the Sunday school army of near 500 repair in 26 classes 
to their accustomed rooms with their teachers for recitation. 
After thirty minutes the Chapel piano calls them to reassemble 
in the auditorium. 

Church Session and Preaching. — Without singing or any sort 
of preliminaries, Pastor Buckner rises from his chair and calls 
"Home" Church into church conference for business. A letter 
of dismission is granted a young lady, former ward, to unite with 
the First Baptist Church at Galveston. Other letters are granted. 

Now the invitation to unite with the church is given, and 



One Busy Lord's Day 279 

several respond, six for baptism. They relate their Christian 
experiences in language clear and simple. Some date their con- 
victions to a sermon preached by the Home Chaplain on the 
"Unpardonable Sin." They have been saved in the preaching 
services, in the Sunday school and in their rooms. 

The sermon is preached from the text, "The law of the Lord 
is perfect," while the pastor's heart is full of love for God and 
His law. 

"Perfection belongs to God. All his works from the tiniest 
blade of grass to the stateliest oak, from the smallest pebble to 
the sublimest mountain peak, are the perfection of beauty. 

"His laws are perfect. And the nearer the laws of men 
approach God's standard the nearer they are to perfection. 

"God's laws are perfect both as a rule of conduct and as a 
rule of worship. 

"Sin is the transgression of these laws. And sin is the cause 
of all woe, sorrow, bloodshed and death. 

"The ten commandments given by Moses lie at the basis of 
all good laws and of all good government. They were engraved 
on tables of stone by the finger of God. The human govern- 
ment that copies closely after these laws is the best government 
and has the happiest people. 

"The Bible teaching about worship is plain. It teaches that 
the immersion of believers in Christ is baptism, and nothing else 
is. It teaches that all who are thus baptized, and no others, 
should belong to the church and take the Lord's Supper. 

"This teaching is God's law. It is perfect. Changing this 
perfect law of the Lord is responsible for all the unhappy divi- 
sions among God's people. And they will never be a unit till 
all come together on God's law. 

"The perfect gospel order is, first hearing, then repentance, 
then faith, then baptism, then church membership with its privi- 
leges and duties." 

This is a brief report of a very fine sermon. 



280 Life of R. C. Buckner 

It is twelve o'clock. The service concludes with brief, 
appealing benediction. 

Dinner. — The plain, Lord's Day dinner is spread. With 
beautiful step, lines of children move in graceful order into the 
dining halls and to their accustomed plates at the long tables. 
Look, everyone is still and silent. Now a praise-song. Now 
thanksgiving, while every head is bowed. Dinner is relished. 

But no child enjoys his dinner more than "Father Buckner" 
does his of "chicken and dumplings." Something extra this, 
complimentary and unexpected. 

Afternoon. — Will Dr. Buckner take an afternoon nap? Not 
he. Every Lord's Day is too full of activities for that. And so 
is every other day. 

Some of these dear children are in darkness and sin and 
seeking salvation. He is pointing them to the Lamb of God. 
Others, newborn babes in Christ, are shown the path of obedience 
and service. 

Bible School. — Now the pastor repairs to the Chapel, where 
the "Home" Chaplain is conducting a Bible School, made up of 
Sunday school teachers and advanced pupils. The study is the 
Parables of the Kingdom, Matt. 13:44-53. To have the pastor 
take his seat and listen for a time with marked attention and 
approval makes glad every heart. 

It is supper time. The usual signal is calling. 

Supper. — Similar beautiful order and ceremonies to those 
observed at breakfast and dinner hours are now again observed. 
The children have their plain, wholesome food. And Father 
Buckner enjoys it with them. 

Evening Service, Baptizing. — The elegant "Home" Chapel is 
brilliantly lighted with two hundred large, globular, electric lights. 
Nearly all connected with Buckner Orphans Home are assem- 
bled and singing hallelujah songs. Pastor Buckner is standing 
in the church baptistry, which is filled with pure artesian water. 
He is ready to immerse the waiting candidates. 



One Busy Lord's Day 281 

But he gives the invitation to other young converts to follow 
their Lord in the holy ordinance. They come. They are ex- 
amined by the "Home" Chaplain, as to their faith and hope, and 
eight of them approved by "Home" church. And now the ven- 
erable pastor buries with their Lord in holy immersion fourteen 
new-born souls. They are all a part of his beloved orphan 
family. And behold, while still standing in the baptismal font 
he brings a gospel message, a sermon of thirty minutes, full of 
tenderness and power. 

Text. — "Ho every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters." 
Subject: "The Fountain and the Famishing." 

Following is a brief statement of the discourse: 

"God has provided the fountain. All the race of men in 
sin are the famishing. 

"Water quenches thirst and nothing else in all the world 
will do it. 

"The souls of the people are thirsting for the water of salva- 
tion. The fountain for quenching soul-thirst is the fountain 
opened in Calvary. Let the thirsty soul come straight to Jesus, 
just as thirsty lips come to a flowing fountain. Come to Him 
and drink by trusting Him, drink till all the thirst is gone. Will 
not some of you, my orphan boys and girls, come this very night 
and drink?" 

A closing prayer and this Lord's Day, full of faith and works, 
passes into history, bearing its report up to God who gave it. 



CHAPTER XXXIX 

FROM LITERARY PRODUCTIONS, SERMONS, PUBLIC ADDRESSES, ETC. 

The selections here given are from Dr. Buckner's writings, ser- 
mons and addresses. It is believed his thousands of friends will 
be glad to have them preserved. Not a selection can be read with- 
out profit. 

ADDRESS OF WELCOME 

To the Baptist General Convention of Texas, in Session in Fair 
Park Auditorium, Dallas, Texas, November 16, 1913. 

A distinguished honor has been unexpectedly forced upon me 
by the local committee. They have requested that I say words 
of welcome to you. I shall say but little, but every statement 
shall have a meaning to it. The fact that this spacious, beau- 
tiful hall has been thrown open to you, with the attractive Fair 
Park at your disposal, proclaims more eloquently than could my 
tongue the welcome the city of Dallas extends to you. 

The Commercial Club invites you here. It is composed of 
solid, sober citizens. There is another club called the "One 
Hundred and Fifty Thousand Club." It is composed of the 
ambitious, earnest, wide-awake young bloods of the city. I have 
the honor of being a member of that club (laughter) and can 
more appropriately say that the young men's club of "One Hun- 
dred and Fifty Thousand" bids you welcome. 

The First Baptist Church, the Gaston Avenue Church, South 
Park Church, McKinney Avenue Church, the German Baptist 
Church, Lancaster Avenue Church, and Ervay Street Church, 
seven Baptist Churches, and scriptural in number, all bid you 
welcome. Then the pastors of the other churches in the city 
bid you welcome, throwing open their doors and vacating their 
pulpits to the convention. 

282 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 283 

The ladies of the city, the Baptist ladies especially, offer you 
a big welcome. Nor is this all. As you pass along the streets 
and into the places of worship, you will meet the sparkling eyes 
of our swarms of boys and girls. The eyes and smiles of these 
young people bespeak to you a glad welcome. And if I only had 
my family from a little bit out in the country, my family of 550, 
they would say "Welcome." 

This report of Dr. Buckner's Address of Welcome is con- 
densed. 

Colonel Henry Exall, Lover of the People 

(Memorial Address before the Texas Industrial Congress, 
assembled in Dallas, of which Colonel Exall was the founder and 
president. He died in 1913.) 

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, beloved Fellow Citi- 
zens: I address you as noble comrades in a heroic warfare, 
being led by our Texas Industrial Congress, against waste, against 
misdirected energies in the cultivation of the soil and in other 
industries. The subject assigned me is "Colonel Exall, a Lover 
of the People. ,, 

An intelligent lover he was. An intelligent lover of the 
people thinks for their happiness and welfare, and is active to 
promote all interest and enterprises that tend to their betterment. 

Life should be invested for the outgrowth of all its possi- 
bilities. It is God's gift, and whether with one talent or ten 
talents, should be faithfully used in God's service, and unselfishly 
among the people he created. 

When our friend was born, when Heaven's light of love first 
sparkled from his infant eyes, he came with a heart to love his 
race, with a soul to yearn for the welfare of the people, and with 
a hand open to all whom he might be able to help. These gifts 
and capabilities needed to be cultivated, and this work was under- 
taken at once by a faithful mother and noble father. The atmos- 
phere he breathed was love, and his entire being, body, mind and 



284 Life of R. C. Buckner 

soul, grew and expanded for the benevolent words and work 
soon to enlist his energies. 

In boyhood he was schooled in the cultivation of the soil, 
and in caring for useful, domestic animals. The cultured brain 
and skilled hand of his doting father led him along the delightful 
ways of industry in country life. All these things in his early 
youth prepared him for the greatest activities that in later life 
made him a benefactor in the realm of industry. 

His patient, untiring father also taught him to be oatient, 
thoughtful and hopeful. He learned thus early that, 

This world is full of beauty, 

That life is full of duty, 

That he enjoys it best, 

Who with hopeful heart is willing, 

Both in sowing and in tilling, 

First to labor, then to rest. 

He took no little pleasure in talking to me about these things. 

Colonel Exall was also a school man, a lover of literature, 
skilled in the science of mathematics, in chemistry, and whatever 
else that led him to an intelligent acquaintance with climatic 
conditions and the cultivation of the soil. 

At the beginning of my acquaintance with him he was en- 
gaged in raising and training fine stock in Bosque County. Later 
he settled in Dallas and very soon impressed me as few men have 
done, in a logical and eloquent appeal before an assembly of our 
best citizens, an appeal for a sufficient bonus to secure one of 
the great trunk railroads through our city. That road, from its 
beginning to this day, has been bringing to us multitudes of 
citizens and countless tons of merchandise. This, too, gave 
employment to many mechanics and laborers. 

From the day he came to be a citizen of Dallas he commanded 
the confidence and respect of all professional and business men, 
and the love and esteem of all the people. Soon all came to 
look on him as their friend and patron. 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 285 

In the growth of our city, in the building of factories and 
industries, giving employment and homes to thousands, Colonel 
Exall has been both a factor and an inspiration. He has not 
worked for pay, position or praise, but for peace, plenty and 
prosperity to all the people. When the Industrial Congress was 
organized he at once gave himself intently and intelligently to 
such investigations and plans as conserved its time and guided its 
developments along lines helpful to farming, stock raising and 
other industries. The country people were as much in his 
thoughts as business and professional men. He was a lover of 
all the people. 

His wisdom, intelligence and activity, as president of the 
Texas Industrial Congress, secured for him the attention and 
esteem of enterprising people in all the State and beyond. His 
newspaper articles and public addresses pulsated with life and 
moved the multitudes to more careful and thorough study of 
soil and climate. The result was the yield of a single acre in 
many instances came to be in excess of what had previously been 
gathered from two or more acres. Farmers came to supply their 
families better with the necessaries of life, and to afford some 
of its real luxuries. On these intensely interesting subjects he 
was as gladly heard at such places as Madison Square, New 
York, as in farming districts in his own beloved Texas. In- 
variably he grew eloquent in pleading for homes and farms and 
for peace and prosperity. The grip of the strong hand of the 
farmer, the "thank you" of the farmer's wife, and the happy 
faces of the farmer's children always lighted up his benevolent 
face with joy. He loved the people and by the people he was 
loved. 

Burying a Dead Horse 

(Letter to children in Baptist Standard, May 1 1, 1905) 

I don't mean, dear children, that I ever buried a dead horse, 
or refused to bury one, nor do I want to tell you how to do such 



286 Life of R. C. Buckner 

a disagreeable job ; but I heard a story about a thing of the sort 
that I want you to hear. I heard it from President Roosevelt, 
in a big speech he made lately in Dallas, when he was on his 
tour through Texas. You know he was Colonel Roosevelt in 
our war with Spain over the sinking of the battleship Maine. 
The great battle cry those days was, "Remember the Maine." 
I want you to remember the story about burying the dead horse, 
because it has a good lesson in it. A while before the battle at 
San Juan Hill an injured looking, crestfallen soldier went to 
Mr. Roosevelt and said : "Colonel Roosevelt, I came all the way 
down here to fight the battles of my country, and now I'm 
ordered to go and bury an old dead horse." 

"You were ordered to do it by a proper officer, were you?" 
said the Colonel. 

"Yes, Colonel," said the humiliated soldier. "Yes, Colonel." 

"Well," said Roosevelt, "go and bury the horse; you must 
obey orders ; good soldiers must not choose for themselves, but 
will obey orders as well in small things as in great things." 

"So the man buried the dead horse," said the President in 
his speech, with a peculiar nod of his head. 

Yes, there is a good lesson in this — a lesson for children as 
to how to obey their parents ; a lesson for Christians as to how 
to obey God. God once commanded Moses to cast a rod upon 
the ground — a small thing, but he did it, and it became a serpent. 
He then said to him : "Put forth thy hand and take it by the 
tail" — also a small and rather dangerous thing it appeared. But 
Moses obeyed, took the serpent by the tail and it became a rod 
again. Afterwards Moses stretched it out over the Red Sea 
and the waters divided so that the Israelites marched through 
and escaped death. 

To take that snake by the tail looked like it would be as dis- 
agreeable a thing as to bury a dead horse, but it was right for 
Moses to do the one and the soldier to do the other. To that 
soldier it looked like a very little thing to bury a dead horse, 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 287 

compared with the deeds of a great, brave soldier on the battle 
field, but if he had refused he would not have made a good 
soldier. The Bible teaches us that we must not neglect the 
little things — not the very "least commandment." In one of 
the parables it is said: "Well done good and faithful servant; 
thou hast been faithful over a few things, and I will make thee 
ruler over many things." 

We are not to choose between little and great things in mat- 
ters of obedience. The preacher said in the book of Ecclesiastes, 
"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might." 
"Whatsoever," whether it be great or small, hard or easy, pleas- 
ant or disagreeable. The soldier buried the dead horse because 
he was commanded to do it, and it was his duty. Remember the 
President's story about the dead horse, and remember the good 
lesson in it. 

Yesterday an orphan girl stopped at the Children's Hospital 
in Dallas on her way to Buckner Orphans Home, and they tele- 
phoned out to the Home that she would help about the washing 
the next day, and then they would send her on to the country 
home. One of the girls, who had not heard why she had not 
come out to the Home in the country, asked about it in the pres- 
ence of another bright orphan girl, who understood it, and who 
had heard the President's story as above : "She is burying a dead 
horse at the Children's Hospital," replied the other. 

Dr. Buckner saw a picture of an aged doctor on his horse 
going to see a patient, and exclaimed : 

If it's old age you are pursuing, 
You should be always up and doing. 

Address at Laymen's Baptist State Convention, Ft. Worth, 
February 12, 19 14 

Brother Chairman: I have been present in this convention 
only at irregular intervals and but a little while at any time. But 



288 Life of R. C. Buckner 

when present I have enjoyed it, and realized an increasing inter- 
est in the discussions. But I am glad of the opportunity to 
address this great body of Baptist laymen, notwithstanding the 
word "layman" is a misnomer among Baptists. What we most 
need is to get rid of all our laymen. They are a hindrance, a 
clog and a blockade in the way of progress. I speak of the word 
in its real meaning. A layman is an uninformed person. And 
the want of proper information is the cause of inactivity. The 
word in its ecclesiastical signification is of Roman Catholic origin 
and was used to differentiate between the clergy and the laity. 
The priests and other dignitaries assumed the right to read and 
interpret the scriptures and to dictate and domineer over the 
masses who were not only required to be silent, but were then 
kept in ignorance in all Catholic countries. It was under these 
conditions that the words laity and laymen came into use. These 
facts may be found in their own literature. 

Among Baptists we want no laymen in this sense. All church 
members should be informed, and in the possession of proper 
information they should be active. I offer no criticism on the 
name of this convention, but insist that it is only used in an 
appropriated sense. 

You now understand what I mean when I say that the Baptists 
need to get rid of all our laymen. This has been done already 
in a large measure. Our laymen generally are informed people, 
and some of them very thoroughly informed. Hence many of 
them are active, as is very evident in this Convention of 1,000 
members. In fact, if some of our preachers do not get a move 
on themselves they will be left in the rear and laymen will become 
their leaders. 

Baptists are very much like a hive of bees. Bees are em- 
braced in three classes, official bees, working bees and drones. I 
have sometimes thought that official bees were too officious and 
this may be so with Baptist ministers. Drones are of no use as 
honey gatherers in a bee-hive. Neither are they of any account 






From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 289 

among Baptists. All Baptists should be working honey-gath- 
erers. Let us get rid of our laymen. Let them become in- 
formed. Let them be given promotion cards. 

Information begets inspiration, inspiration leads to effort and 
effort is essential to success. Now let all Baptists, whether 
preachers, deacons or what we have come to call laymen, seek 
to become better informed, to cherish and cultivate greater zeal 
and to work enthusiastically and industriously for the conversion 
of the world and the bringing in of the Kingdom. 

Some Rimes on Proverbs of Solomon 

Prov. 8:9. "The scorner hateth his reprover." 
The wise regardeth him a lover. 

Prov. 1 1 124. "There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth, and 
there is that withholdeth more than is meet, and 
it tendeth to poverty." 
There is that scattereth far and near, 
But yieldeth large increase; 
There is that keepeth back through fear 
Yet groweth surely less. 

Prov. 12:22. "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, 
But they that deal truly are His delight." 
All lying lips displease the Lord, 
And men will soon despise their word. 
Then speak the truth; 'tis surely right, 
And in you God will take delight. 

Prov. 14:16. "A wise man feareth and departeth from evil: 
But the fool rageth and is in conflict." 
A wise man feareth and departeth from evil : 
A fool will embrace it and go to the devil. 

Prov. 14:11. "The homes of the wicked shall be overthrown; 
But the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish." 
The home of the wicked shall be overthrown, 



290 Life of R. C. Buckner 

The devil shall catch him and call him his own; 

The tent of the righteous shall surely flourish, 

And peace and abundance his heart shall nourish. 
Prov. 16:24. "Pleasant words are as honeycomb," 

And should be used in every home. 
Prov. 18:15. "The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge/' 

Whether in or out of school or college. 
Prov. 17:13. "Whoso rewardeth evil for good," 

Does the opposite of what he should. 
Prov. 17:17. "A true friend loveth at all times," 

Let it be told in prose and rimes. 
Prov. 3 :5. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart," 

And from all evil ways depart. 
Prov. 15 4. "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life," 

But the upas is a tongue of strife. 

(Written on an envelope while at church, on hearing Pastor 
George W. Truett exclaim, "Duty is beautiful always.") 

Whatever is dutiful, 

Is always beautiful, 

No matter what people may say ; 

And the voice of the Lord 

May be heard in His word, 

By all who are glad to obey. 

Caring for the Dependent 
(November 10, 1910) 

While all the shepherds feed their sheep, 
It gives me joy the lambs to keep ; 
The feeble and the lame shall find 
A resting place and treatment kind; 
The aged ones shall also share 
Most tender, gentle, patient care. 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 291 

Who Has a Right to Eat? 

It's eat, eat, eat, three times a day, 
Whether we work or whether we play; 
Not caring what objectors say, 
We'll eat, eat, eat, three times a day, 
And for our daily bread we'll pray. 

The men who raise the crop don't care, 
And those who buy and sell declare 
That all should eat three times a day, 
Whether they work, or whether they play, 
"Just so we all can get our pay." 

But men who foot the bills all say, 

And cooks who cook the meals each day, 

With unequivocal words still say, 

That none should eat three times a day, 

Excepting those who work and pay. 

And this is what the Bible teaches, 
And every candid preacher preaches 
To men of low and high estate, 
That he who works not shall not eat. 

"Be Kind to One Another." — Paul 

Gentle words from hearts of love 
May other hearts to kindness move, 
But stouter spirits may be broken 
By cruel words unkindly spoken. 

(February 2, 1911) 
The road to heaven starts in the beautiful valley of humility 
and is upgrade all the way. Its terminus is on the banks of the 



292 Life of R. C. Buckner 

sparkling river that proceeds from beneath the great white throne 
and flows out through the Paradise of God, watering the flowers 
and fruits of immortal life. 



My Soul Shall be Joyful in the Lord (Ps. 35:9) 

Why should the Lord's redeemed be sad? 

Why should they sing in plaintive strain ? 
Why should they not be always glad? 

Why not rejoice? The Lord doth reign. 

Why not trust and never grieve? 

Why not each day have hope and cheer? 
Why not with happy hearts believe? 

Why not rejoice? The Lord is near. 

Sleeping Orphans in Their White Beds 

O Father, from yon bright blue sky 
Let guardian angels softly fly, 
And hover o'er the clean, white beds 
On which these orphans rest their heads. 
No mothers near their cheeks to kiss, 
And yet they rest in peaceful bliss, 
Objects of love and tender prayers — 
May dreams of home and heaven be theirs. 

The Boy Saved 

(February 23, 1911) 

An old hut in the country had but two occupants, an aged 

grandmother and a little grandson. The only piece of furniture 

was a pine box, used for a table. The provisions consisted of 

only a small quantity of cornmeal and a little piece of bacon. 






From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 293 

The old woman made a fire of the box, cooked the meal and 
bacon on the coals and shared it with the hungry boy. Then she 
sent him to Buckner Orphans Home with a statement of these 
sad facts, and went herself out into the world, not knowing 
whither she went. We have not heard from her since, but the 
boy is with us. 

No Clouds 
(April 15, 1911) 

I've seldom felt in all my years 

A lingering sense of sorrow; 
I've seldom felt distressing cares, 

That lasted till tomorrow. 

The sorrows that to me have come, 

The shadows flitting by, 
Ne'er gather like a pall of gloom, 

Nor hide the star-lit sky. 

The sunshine of each coming day 
Hath beamed down from above, 

And driven every cloud away 

And warmed my heart with love. 

Tears of penitence water the garden of the heart and promote 
the growth of righteousness. 

Were I a Bud 

Were I a bud I would expand 

And seek a flower to be, 
The largest blossom in the land 

On stem, or shrub, or tree. 



294 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Would like to grow by open door, 

And smile on each dear face 
Inside the cottage of the poor, 

And sweeten all the place. 

Rescue the Drifting 
(Good Samaritan, 1884) 

"Drifting, come to the rescue! Drifting, come to the rescue!" 
disturbed my dreams last night, and upon awaking from a rest- 
less sleep multitudes of human beings of every age and sex, 
moving forward in ignorance and vice, were contemplated. 

Oh, it was worse than to have seen scores of people, old and 
young, floating rapidly down a murky, turbulent stream, without 
plan, purpose or power to save themselves, and with none to 
deliver them — as much worse as morality is more to be esteemed 
than mortality, and as souls are worth more than flesh, blood 
and bones. 

I sat up in bed and recalled the scenes of boyhood, when I 
often stood near the banks of overflowing creeks, and on the 
cliffs of the Cumberland river, beholding its waters dashing 
through the hills and valleys of Kentucky, bearing on its rapid 
current, after torrents of rain had fallen, timber from forests 
and fencing from fields and farms, with force irresistible in 
wild confusion. Downward drifting, onward rushing with the 
raging, roaring river, now swallowed by a whirlpool, now heaved 
up again, only to be driven madly forward and dashed against 
the rugged, rocky ribs of limestone cliffs at some sudden river 
bend. 

But this was not the rest-disturbing picture, as I heard the 
town clock strike one, and two, and on. It was but the scene of 
by-gone years, that came at memory's call in the darkness and 
stillness of the night, to represent a drifting more exciting and 
far more terrible to contemplate. 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 295 

I thought of the dreadful drifting of human beings with 
immortal souls — thousands of our own race, aye of our own 
countrymen — who are drifting in a moral sense, drifting, down- 
ward drifting, borne by the force of depraved propensities and 
perverted passions, onward and downward, and nearing the final 
destruction. Now they are swallowed up in the whirlpools of 
greed and guilt and tried by undercurrents strong, now thrown 
to the surface and carried forward by iniquity at full tide, yield- 
ing to its force and having neither purpose nor power to oppose 
the current nor pull for the shore — drifting, downward drifting, 
gone beyond reach and rescue. 

Oh, to think that not only the larger timber but even the 
sprigs and flowers, not only the rough criminals from the wiles of 
reckless society but the buds of hope from the bosom of cultured 
and refined society, noble boys and sweet girls from the pleasant 
homes of happy families are thus drifting to destruction. 

"Come to the rescue !" What do we hear? A husband, once 
brave and true, is drifting to destruction. He is ruined in prop- 
erty and wrecked in mind and morals. The wife weeps and the 
children gather their tattered garments about them and cry for 
bread. The woman calls for help to save her husband from a 
death of shame and her children from want and wretchedness. 
She calls to her sisters in sorrow and suffering from the same 
cause — their husbands are drifting too — and from all over the 
land, with other hearts less unfortunate, comes the response: 
"We will to the rescue ! We will to the rescue !" 

But what can they do unless the men of the country respond ? 
Hence, they call to the rescue ministers, deacons and church 
members, voters, office-holders, lawyers, judges and jurors. 
How many will respond? 

"Drifting, come to the rescue ! Drifting, come to the rescue !" 
should be caught up and reverberated from every American 
pulpit and platform, and from every hall of legislation and jus- 
tice. And it should be ringing in the hearts and consciences of 



296 Life of R. C. Buckner 

all the people of this great nation with the solemnity of a funeral 
knell and with the inspiring power of a call to arms to stay- 
death and devastation at the murderous hands of an invading 
army. 

"Drifting?" Yes, drifting. "Drifting whither?" Drifting 
into squalid poverty and despair, into scenes of scandal and 
social shame, into family feuds and wretchedness, into foul 
guilt and filthy gutters, into judgment halls and within prison 
walls, into the gallowsway to the grave and the gangway to 
gehenna, and not a few go in thereat. 

What swells the mighty current of evil that sweeps over the 
land, bearing death and destruction on its angry tide? 
ALCOHOL. 

What are some of the whirlpools ready to swallow up those 
that are drifting on this murky current? Only three shall be 
mentioned. 

First, the Gambling Hell. — This ugly name, well stereotyped, 
refers, we may suppose, to the low, dark, dirty dens, where 
sneaking dishonesty and gaming of the lowest kinds are prac- 
ticed. But it is the tastefully constructed, neatly carpeted, gilded 
and brilliantly lighted gambling hall that is the more dangerous 
whirlpool. Near to these the innocent young man may venture, 
and into them the unexperienced drift. 

The mother goes to the bedchamber of her "dear boy" at 9 
o'clock p. m., but he is not there. The wife waits till a late hour 
for the return of "husband dear" from the society or clubroom, 
but he has drifted in a different direction, and returning takes 
his nap while she prepares breakfast. Her suspicions are 
aroused. For months her fears grow greater. At last he is a 
confirmed gambler and she knows it. It is so with the son, too ! 
Oh who can come to the rescue ? 

Next, the Brothel. — There is many a "dear boy," many a 
"darling daughter," many a "sweet, pure sister," many a once 
"husband dear," and once "darling wife" — as those who have 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 297 

drifted into this shameful whirlpool were called by their former 
"dear ones" in happy homes in the days of their innocency — 
who now revel in wickedness. O terrible whirlpool of madness, 
into which they have drifted, ere long to end a miserable exist- 
ence, mayhap by suicide — it matters little how — unless they can 
be rescued. O God ! is there no redemption ? And hast thou no 
servants on earth, who will seek to rescue these drifting mortals? 
Mary Magdalene was pardoned, and now can none of these be 
encouraged to "go and sin no more" ? 

Whether or not any who have drifted into this whirlpool 
are calling, or even willing to be rescued, there are broken hearts 
that would give worlds for their redemption, and they are calling 
upon all who love God and humanity, "To the rescue! To the 
rescue !" 

Last, the Prison. — Oh, how many have been drifting, down- 
ward drifting, till they occupy cells in county jails and state 
prisons. Many of them may be beyond redemption and neither 
fit to live or die, yet the feelings of humanity should not be for- 
gotten. The death penalty will doubtless be justly executed 
upon numbers of them. But while life prolongs but for a few 
days they should be pointed to Christ and commended in prayer 
to the grace of God. 

Others, as the result of legal investigation, or of serving out 
the time prescribed by the jury, will be set at liberty. Shall 
they be ostracized even from sympathy, and driven to utter 
despair, or would it not be better to instruct and encourage in 
reference to better lives? 

Look through the bars. Some of them are young men. Their 
mothers are yet living. Their sisters' hearts are yet tender. Oh, 
may you not help them to encourage the poor boys to yet make 
life a success? 

"But some," you say, "are hardened in sin and blackened in 
crime." Yes, but they are human beings, and they may not have 
had a kind word for years except from pals in wickedness. They 



298 Life of R. C. Buckner 

may not have heard a Christian hymn since their mothers died 
when they were boys, and may not have heard a Christian pray 
since in youth they kneeled in the old meeting house. Go, Chris- 
tian sister, and sing for them through the iron grate. It might 
remind them of their mother's voice, and bring back the tender 
memories of more innocent days. Go, brother Christian, and 
pray for them. It might call up the prayers the old pastor 
offered for them when they went up with father and mother, 
now dead, to the house of God. Who knows but the fallow 
ground of their hard hearts might be broken till the melting rays 
of truth might enter. 

"Down in the human heart, 

Crushed by the tempter, 
Feelings lie buried that grace can restore. 

Touched by a loving heart, 

Watered by kindness, 
Chords that were broken may vibrate once more." 

The undercurrents in prison life, the influence of the reck- 
less over those not so far gone, must be powerful as they now 
feel that they are about shut out from confidence and even from 
the sympathies of the world. There is great reason to fear that 
when such men come out again into society they will drift even 
more rapidly and recklessly downward and clear beyond the 
possibility of rescue. 

Come now to the rescue, O philanthropist ! Come, O Chris- 
tian laborers! 

The motives of the philanthropist are good and commendable, 
as he endeavors to reclaim any who are in any of the whirlpools 
mentioned, or drifting in any w?y. But the motives of the 
Christian are equally so, and then they reach further, desiring 
poor, drifting souls to be saved in Christ. Then to your work, 
brother, sister. Duty calls you, love prompts you and God will 
give you strength. 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 299 

'Rescue the perishing, 

Duty demands it, 
Strength for the labor the Lord will provide. 

Back to the narrow way 

Patiently win them, 
Tell the poor wanderer a Savior has died." 

Reunion Sermon, 1903 

(It has been the custom of former inmates of Buckner Or- 
phans Home to come together at the Home in Annual Reunion 
in October, and on such occasions hear a Reunion Sermon from 
their benefactor, Father Buckner. We present the sermon of 
1903. The occasion was memorable. There was no place where 
the visiting orphans, or the present inmates could be seated. 
The spacious veranda and the corridors of the Girls' Building 
were utilized as standing room. The sermon was stenograph- 
ically reported by several of the orphan girls.) 

What I say may be zigzag and disjointed. I do not know 
that I shall be able to say what I would like. Your presence 
and the occasion bring to my mind a thousand vivid memories, 
and they are struggling for utterance. My thoughts are revolv- 
ing so rapidly that the governor may lose its control. My heart 
is so full that I must guard the valve. To my few neighbors who 
have gathered I must say that this is a reunion of former inmates 
of the Home, numbers of whom we have not seen for years. 
They have been coming at intervals for 24 hours. A crowd 
came last night from the depot, singing as they entered: 

"Home, home, sweet, sweet home, 
There is no place like home/' 

Some have brought their wives, and the children God has 
given them since we last saw them. You are welcome with us 
here today, my neighbors. I am interested in this community, 



300 Life of R. C. Buckner 

the home of our great institution; interested in the value of its 
farms and stock; in its financial, educational, social and moral 
development. Command me, my neighbors, at any time I can 
be of service to you or to the community. It is near the close 
of the first quarter of a century of this institution, and the 
twenty-seventh year of my orphan work. But this occasion is 
not to celebrate that event. 

The Sermon 

Paul said: "Though ye have ten thousand instructors yet 
have ye not many fathers." i Cor. 4:15. And John said: "I 
have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the 
truth." 3 John 4. 

These were marvelous words of the heroic Paul, who, after 
his wonderful conversion, devoted his life to preaching the gospel 
of the Son of God, who counted not his own life dear unto him- 
self, and who placed no kind of valuation on personal ease or 
pleasure, so he might win souls to Christ. Paul suffered much, 
was sorely misrepresented, was beaten with many stripes, and 
finally put to death. But in the midst of most cruel persecu- 
tions and under the greatest misrepresentations, he appealed to 
his work as his vindication. Addressing his disciples he said, 
with exultant joy: "Ye are our epistle, written in our hearts, 
known and read of all men." 

Ye are Our Epistle. — I may be indulged in saying in your 
presence that every great institution has to suffer criticism, and 
so has every public man, especially if he be a preacher. I ignore 
every misrepresentation and every unkind criticism, that has 
been made on me personally, on my work, or on this institution. 
The results of the work as here manifest speak for the work 
itself. Nor do I appeal to these magnificent buildings, nor to 
these broad acres of land, that belong to the orphans in a way 
that no man can rob them. But rather as a vindication I wave 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 301 

my hand above the heads of these splendid young men and 
women, who were reared here, and point to these pretty, brown- 
eyed, blue-eyed, gray-eyed children and tell the world that they, 
and many hundreds like them, yes, thousands, have gone out 
from this institution. They "are our epistles, written in our 
hearts, known and read of all men." Here are John, Charley, 
Jesse, Henry, Cynthia, Vallie, Elmo, Daisy and Mamie, with 
their wives and husbands, and this multitude of young men, 
women and children, just as good and worthy. God bless them 
all! I would not be partial. In these you behold the splendid 
results of this work. And to you, my dear ones, I gladly say 
that "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk 
in the truth." I have baptized many of you. Many of you, 
along the past years, have told me of your faith in the blessed 
Christ. And messages have been received from and concerning 
others of my scattered children, and all over Texas and beyond, 
have melted my heart as few things have done. I recall a letter 
from one of our dear boys, John Henderson, now a young 
preacher, who has brothers and sisters visiting us today, a long 
letter filled with expressions of religion, love, faith and desire 
for the salvation of others, scarcely equaled by anything I ever 
read. Another, not here because of a delayed train, gave my 
heart joy in a distant town, as I heard her talk to an old man so 
gently, earnestly, sensibly and pathetically, about what a con- 
sistent Christian faith and life will do for a child of God. And 
how proud I was to hear the pastor say that she is honored by 
the whole town. As I look in your faces, it gives me delight. 
I know so much of your young lives, and have heard so many 
good things concerning you since you left us, that it fills my 
soul. None of us have sprouted angels' wings. We cannot yet 
soar aloft and fly like the angels far above all sin and care. But 
we can walk, and I rejoice that so many of my children walk in 
the truth. 

This is not a reunion of my own family. But I do rejoice 



302 Life of R. C. Buckner 

in having received into Christian fellowship all of my own chil- 
dren, Mary, Maggie, Addie, Bobbie, Joel, Dudley and Hal, and 
quite a number of my grandchildren. My great grandchildren 
are all yet too young, but I hope to see them walking in the truth 
also. No, this is a reunion of my orphan children, and I apply 
to them the words of my text, "I have no greater joy than to 
hear that my children walk in the truth." 

What is Truth? — God is the author of truth, of all truth and 
all good things. The devil is the author of all evil and is "the 
father of lies." Those who walk in truth turn their backs on 
the devil, with all of his evil suggestions, temptations and machi- 
nations, and walk in the light of God's truth. 

Truth is Beautiful. — The "human form divine," the physical 
structure and facial features of mankind are painted by artists 
and sung by poets, as superior in loveliness and attractiveness 
to all the objects formed by the inimitable skill of the plastic 
hand of God. But there is nothing so beautiful as truth. A 
beautiful spirit, a beautiful character, a beautiful life, make a 
beautiful face; and to walk in truth is a beautiful walk. The 
old grandmother in homespun dress and calico sunbonnet, with 
sunken eyes, thin, pale lips, gray hair and faltering steps, is 
beautiful, because she has been "faithful, true and kind," as 
you sang a while ago. She has walked in the truth. An old 
man with stooped shoulders, wrinkled face, leaning on his staff, 
is beautiful, no matter how uncertain his footstep, or faltering 
his tongue. And he is admired, and tenderly loved, if he has 
walked in the beautiful light of God's word of truth. On one 
occasion a girl's clothing was in flames, and for a moment it 
looked as if it would be all over with her soon. But the old 
father rushed to her rescue and saved her life, though at the 
cost of severe burns to himself. One hand was terribly scarred 
and drawn. Later he died, and the thoughtful ones, preparing 
him for burial, crossed his hands over his breast and covered 
the scarred hand with the other. But the daughter, who had 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 303 

been saved, approached, reversed the position of the hands, 
placing the scarred hand over the other, and said : "This is the 
beautiful hand." It is what one is and does, it is the life that 
makes one beautiful. 

Truth is Uplifting. — It brightens the countenance, emboldens 
the spirit and gives strength and courage to meet difficulties and 
accomplish great purposes. I remember one of our dear boys, 
sitting years ago on the gravel walk near the well, with dejected 
look and fallen countenance. He had no words at command. 
He had gone into the path of disobedience to his matron, and 
tried to cover it with a falsehood. But I approached him kindly, 
persuaded him that truth was better than falsehood and he soon 
told me all, looking me in the eye and feeling better and stronger. 
It was his last falsehood, so far as I have learned. He is now a 
man, a Christian man, and has a Christian wife. They both 
walk in the truth. He is successful in business and is the pride 
of his brothers and sisters, who were also of this orphan family. 
He has self-respect and self-confidence, and does not think of 
failure. That which is false is low and mean, is humiliating. 
It is a heavy load. Under such a load one cannot climb up the 
hills of God, but will be crushed before he reaches the sunlit 
crest of honor. Yes, truth is uplifting. 

Truth is a Great Weapon. — When you fight against the devil, 
when you make battle against the many forms of sin and temp- 
tation, keep truth on your side and victory will be easy. Other- 
wise, defeat is certain. God's truth is a sword, a shield, a com- 
plete armor. In the great battle of life millions have fallen be- 
cause they have not honored the truth. "Take the sword of the 
Spirit, which is the word of God," the truth itself, and God will- 
see that you conquer. Oh, I do rejoice that so many of my 
children walk in the truth. Let me beg of those who do not, to 
turn, to turn now from all sin and darkness into the light of 
God. Take the word of God, each one of you, as "a lamp to 
thy footsteps and a light to thy path." 



304 Life of R. C. Buckner 

God's Truth is a Lamp. — You carry a lamp in your hand and 
its light falls upon your very footsteps. You then walk in con- 
fidence. The lamp is not to throw light a great distance. It is for 
your immediate footsteps. I am now stepping carefully among 
these barefoot boys crowded close together on this floor space. 
I look not out over the lawns, I do not want to step on my boys' 
feet. Take the truth of God's word as a lamp to your feet and 
step carefully in its light. It will give you confidence and safety. 

But the Bible is not merely a lamp. It is a great, bright 
flame, a light to your pathway. It shines ahead, warns of pit- 
falls, rough places and thorny places, and reveals the sparkling 
waters and tempting flowers of peace, purity, love and life. 
God's book is the very embodiment of truth and light. 

The Bible is a Microscope.— With, the microscope you see the 
smallest atoms, things the natural eye cannot discern. Many 
little sins are scarcely seen, if seen at all, by the natural man. 
Moral evils may not be detected. One's own thoughts and de- 
sires may not be realized as evil by himself. But throw the 
microscope of God's word upon them, and their hideous forms 
magnify before the astonished gaze, and Paul's words are better 
understood: "I was once alive without the law, but when the 
commandment came sin revived and I died." He died to the 
love of sin when he looked upon his life through the microscope 
of God's book. 

God's Book as an X-Ray. — More powerful than the micro- 
scope, it reveals what is on the very inside of the secret recesses 
of the heart. One of our orphan daughters broke a needle in 
her finger the other day. Not a particle of it was visible, riot 
even the opening where it entered. We took her to our Chil- 
dren's Hospital, the City Annex, and the next morning when 
the X-Ray was applied the half needle was easily seen, a dark 
object lying close to the bone. Apply the light of the Divine 
Book to your very inmost soul and you will be so awakened to 
the things easily discerned therein that you will want them taken 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc 305 

away, and will be moved to repentance and prayer and to an 
earnest purpose to walk in the truth. 

God's Book as a Great Headlight. — We are traveling through 
a wilderness of sin and darkness, and going at a mighty speed. 
There are unseen dangers ahead all along the way and enemies 
abound in the land. We desire to steer clear of them all. Some- 
times we are at a loss what to do, and are like the children of 
Israel when they were fleeing from Egypt and came to the Red 
Sea. They could see no way to escape from the enemy in pur- 
suit. For a spell they felt the force of Moses' command, "Stand 
still and see the salvation of the Lord!" But God divided the 
waters and they obeyed marching orders. The light of the 
Divine Presence went before them and led them through. It 
was a cloud in the day and a pillar of fire by night. 

Throw the unerring light of truth before you when you 
would go right and in safety. God's truth is a great headlight. 
When clouds are lowering and winds blowing, storms descending 
and thunder roaring, it will make your pathway clear and 
inviting. 

God's Truth is a Telescope. — Through it you can see beyond 
the stars, gazing upward and heavenward, the eye guided by the 
unerring word of God. You can see through the gates of pearl, 
standing ajar. You can see beyond the jasper walls into the 
golden city, lighted by the word of God, and can see the glory 
and honor of the nations, the redeemed of the Lord, the saints 
of God, entering into it. You can see that there are no tears 
there, no shrouds, no tombstones, no graves. You can see the 
"pure river of the water of life," and all the beauties of the 
Paradise of God, the throne of God in the midst of it, and the 
saints casting their glittering crowns at the feet of Jesus. You 
can behold the faces of the angels, if you cannot hear their 
happy voices nor the sweet strains of music floating out from 
their golden harps. As these beauties dazzle before your enrap- 
tured vision, you can know that you are not guided by astrono- 



306 Life of R. C. Buckner 

mers, who by the aid of their most powerful instruments have 
never seen even all the stars, nor followed the comets to the end 
of their flight. You can know that you are not guided by the 
suggestions of navigators of land, or sea, or air; that you are 
not sailing in an airship, but guided upward by God's unerring 
truth. I commend to you the Bible as your great telescope. It 
is God's truth. It offers you all you need to know about sin and 
salvation, heaven and eternity. 

What Is It to Walk in the Truth ? — Christians must not sit in 
idleness. The feet belong to God as well as the heart. All the 
energies and capacities of our nature belong to Him. We must 
not expect to float through life on a tide of divine grace, and be 
welcomed into heaven as good and faithful servants. We must 
walk in the ways of the Lord, make progress, go forward in 
every good work. Jesus, our great exemplar, "went about doing 
good." We must do likewise, must "walk" after His example. 

Oh my dear ones, I want that you shall be practical Chris- 
tians, active in the service of God in being helpful to suffering, 
dependent humanity. I want the power of your words and 
example to tell for good everywhere you go. Our children have 
gone over all Texas, and as far north as Chicago and Nebraska, 
east to New York, south to Galveston, Central Mexico and 
Cuba, and west to Arizona and the Philippine Islands. If all 
of them were walking in the truth and active in Christian work, 
what a power for good! Many of them are walking in the 
truth. They are over the land and on the sea. Others will go, 
and the world should be blessed by them. I believe that soon 
or late your active walking in the truth will bless China, darkest 
Africa and the islands of the sea. Why should not some of 
you, as the years pass by, go as foreign missionaries, as teachers 
and artisans? Religion is not restricted as to its field, or as to 
souls. It has to do with education, the arts and sciences, and 
temporal as well as spiritual things. 

When the time comes for me to close my eyes in death, I 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 307 

think I shall pass on better satisfied under the consciousness of 
having had something to do in the support, education and train- 
ing of orphan children for God's service and in the active, prac- 
tical walks of life. If any of you shall stand around the grave 
of your old "Father Buckner," you must not grieve over any 
trouble you may have given him. You must not think of his 
faults and shortcomings, nor of the sacrifices, toils and hard- 
ships he has endured. Only think what a blessed privilege and 
a blessing all these things have been to him, and of the lessons 
you have learned, and how good God has been to you. Think 
of your obligations to walk in the truth, and to work for the 
glory of God and the good of the world. 

Joy. — Paul endured hardships and yet had joy. His hard- 
ships were greater than mine, but my joy may have been greater 
than his. I was a joyful young Christian before I was twelve 
years old. I was a happy preacher when I was but seventeen, 
and have been blessed in my ministry for 53 years. I have had 
sorrow. But all my grief has come from my own heart and the 
errors and shortcomings of my own life. God and the world, 
my brethren and my enemies have been better to me than I de- 
served. But withal, I have had much joy. It has come through 
rifted clouds as bright sunlight. It has played over my soul 
as pleasant breezes freighted with the perfume of flowers. It 
has been as the singing of birds to my heart. The most joyful 
part of my life has been in the work of founding and conducting 
this blessed Home for orphan children, and has come sweetly 
in seeing my children walk in the truth. 

Children. — Children walking in the truth. What is prettier 
than a child? What more innocent? "Of such is the Kingdom 
of Heaven." The benedictions of Heaven abide with children 
walking in the truth. The other day more than 40 of these 
were baptized, within three weeks more than 60. They came to 
me at different times and places and told of their conversion. 
No revival meeting, no evangelist, nothing but songs, Sunday 



308 Life of R. C. Buckner 

school and a sermon each Sunday morning. No death-bed 
stories, no appeal to sympathy, only heart repentance for sin, 
simple faith in Christ and a desire to walk in the truth. 

My children. Is there selfishness in this emphasis? I was 
more than ordinarily glad when I baptized the last of my own 
sons and daughters. Those who have not had such an experi- 
ence know nothing about it. It is better felt than told. But how 
would any preacher feel over having baptized, as I have done, 
hundreds of orphan children for whom he had cared, as if he 
were their own father? 

I do not know how the appellation, "Father Buckner," came 
into use among you, but it originated early in the Home. I 
have never been ashamed of it. Really it gratifies me for you 
to address me thus affectionately, and in return to call you my chil- 
dren. God bless you, my sons, my daughters ! My sons-in-law, 
my daughters-in-law, my grandchildren ! My children walking 
in the truth. Your Father Buckner's children walking in the 
truth. 

You are welcome here today as you are welcome to the arms 
of Jesus Christ. Is there one here who is not a Christian? I 
want you to know that Jesus will make you welcome if you will 
but come to Him. Come, and walk in the truth and be free from 
sin. "If the truth shall make you free you shall be free indeed." 

Inspiring Ordination Charge 

(The following charge by R. C Buckner was delivered to 
his son, Reverend Hal F. Buckner, on the occasion of the latter's 
ordination to the ministry at the First Baptist Church, Dallas, 
Texas, December 23, 1903.) 

It seldom falls to the lot of a father to deliver the charge on 
the occasion of the ordination of his own son to the Christian 
ministry. But it is the will of the ordaining Church and Pres- 
bytery that I charge you, my son according to the flesh, my son 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 309 

in the gospel arid my brother in Christ Jesus, to be courageous, 
conscientious and faithful in all things pertaining to the sacred 
office upon which you now enter, an office than which none is 
higher, than whose duties and responsibilities none can be more 
sacred or important. 

To me this is a very pleasant privilege, as well as serious 
duty, and it brings to my heart an unusual degree of solemnity, 
solicitude and tenderness, on account of which I will be excused 
in not trusting my emotions to extemporaneous remarks. Be- 
cause of the special relationships and surroundings, I shall exer- 
cise the privilege of giving a charge somewhat unusual in some 
of its features. My son, you are the last born of your doting 
parents. Since they first looked into your face, October 13, 
1878, they have been affectionately solicitous for your happi- 
ness and general welfare. Since you were "born again" your 
growth and prosperity in spiritual life has been a matter of 
deep concern and hopeful anxiety. On August 23, 1890, it was 
my happy privilege to baptize you upon a public profession of 
your faith in Christ, and since that time I have not only desired, 
but believed, that under the leading of the Holy Spirit you 
would find your life work in the Christian ministry. You well 
know how intimately acquainted I was with your struggle of 
mind, heart and conscience, when you were endeavoring to 
throw off your impressions and inclinations to preach the gospel, 
and to engage in secular pursuits; and yet how careful I was 
not to persuade you the one way or the other; and how I aided 
you in seeking secular employment, while you knew my convic- 
tions. You have not forgotten the memorable night, on which, 
of all the family, you and I alone were awake, and when you 
came to me from an adjoining room and notified me of your 
final decision. Since that hour your reading, studies and prayers 
have been directed toward the great calling, upon which you 
now enter as an ordained preacher. 

You are the youngest representative of a line of numerous 



310 Life of R. C. Buckner 

preachers coming down through past generations on both sides 
of your father's family. On your grandmother Buckner's side 
you can look back to that remarkable North Carolinian, Rev- 
erend Elias Dotson, and still back of him to Elder Billie Dotson, 
himself not unknown to Baptist history. On your grandfather 
Buckner's side of the house you are, so far as I recall, the 
seventh Baptist preacher of his name, extending back to the 
birth of the century just closing. 

The First Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas, and this presby- 
tery, their servants on this occasion, have examined your call 
and qualifications for the ministry, and have declared themselves 
satisfied, and now I approach this charge with an inexpressible 
degree of gratification, solemnity and reverence. This ordina- 
tion service is being conducted by a Church upon whose request 
and in whose baptistery I administered to your four sisters at 
the same time the ordinance of holy baptism, which also I ad- 
ministered to your only brother, later on, not remote from this 
place. This service is being conducted within a few hundred 
yards of your place of birth, and in the presence of the people 
with whom you have lived all your life, and with the cooperation 
of your oldest and most intimate friends. Colonel W. L. Will- 
iams, the senior deacon who formally presented you, in the name 
of the Church, to this ordaining council, was a door neighbor 
when you were born. If we had all been Episcopalians, his wife 
would have been your "god-mother." You now sit within a 
few hundred yards of where your grandfather, Elder Daniel 
Buckner, fell asleep after nearly sixty years of faithful service 
as a Baptist preacher, and you are in the presence and under 
the voice of your own father, who himself has entered upon his 
fifty-third year of preaching the same gospel. Only the Red 
River and breadth of prairie are between you and the grave of 
the uncle for whom you are named, H. F. Buckner, who lies 
buried among the Indians after an eventful life of more than 
thirty years as a missionary among them. If you can only 



From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 311 

gather about you recollections of the arduous, faithful, fruitful 
labors of your ancestors, and recognize the fact that God has 
placed burdens on your shoulders, and responsibilities that are 
to be laid down only with the close of your earthly pilgrimage, 
you will realize even from such considerations that there is a 
solemnity about this occasion. O my son, to me it seems that 
these very facts and surroundings should themselves admonish 
you to enter upon your work with fear and trembling and yet 
with heroic boldness and determination to discharge your whole 
duty. 

But the things thus far mentioned, suggestive and encourag- 
ing as they are, sink into insignificance when compared with 
the marvelous fact that God hath "counted you worthy" and 
called you into His service by the Holy Spirit, that "He hath 
committed unto you the ministry of reconciliation." It would 
seem scarcely needful that I admonish and exhort you to be 
faithful to such a trust, and yet it is the more important that 
I do so in this presence, in the midst of these pleasant and 
impressive surroundings, and because of the very sacredness 
of the God-appointed office upon which you enter. Heed the 
callings of God. Remember His authority over His spiritual 
kingdom and the whole universe, and recognize the responsibility 
of the office to which He hath called you. Your great duty is to 
"preach the word." The gospel is the power of God. "It hath 
pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that 
believe," not "foolish preaching," but what foolish philosophers 
call foolish. "Go preach my gospel," is a divine command. 
"Shun not to declare the whole counsel of God." Preach the 
whole gospel, not merely what you may find to be the most 
popular, nor what you might regard as the most important part 
of it. Preach a complete Bible. It is God's book, all of it, and 
man must neither add to nor subtract from it. Mortals dare not 
trifle with it. In it God says just what He means and means 
just what He says, not more, not less. Everything in this 



312 • Life of R. C. Buckner 

blessed book hath its place and importance. All scripture is 
given by inspiration of God and is profitable for reproof, for 
doctrine, for instruction in righteousness, that the man God may 
be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. Study 
it all, preach all of it. Study to show thyself approved unto 
God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing 
the word of truth. Give proper place and importance to each 
and every part of the Bible, historical, prophetical, ceremonial, 
typical, poetical, proverbial; its moral law, its statutes; every 
point of doctrine, every command, every promise; each duty 
in its proper place. Call Bible things by Bible names. "Hold 
fast the form of sound words," but strive not about words to 
no profit. "Foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing 
that they do gender strife. Shun profane and babblings, for 
they will increase unto more ungodliness." Take heed unto thy- 
self, and unto doctrines, continue in them, for in so doing thou 
shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee. "I charge thee, 
therefore, before God and our Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge 
the quick and the dead at His appearing, preach the word, be 
instant in season and out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort 
with all long-suffering and doctrine." Paul said to Timothy, 
"The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, 
but after their own lusts will heap up to themselves teachers 
having itching ears." Are we not now in the midst of just such 
times? Are there not many who, to gratify itching ears, find 
subjects for their sermons and their texts outside the Bible, 
sensational, political, social? Do they not take their texts from 
newspapers, political platfoms, anywhere, anything, rather than 
the plain, old Bible, the "old, old story," repentance toward God 
and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ, regeneration by the 
Holy Spirit, salvation by grace through faith? My son, my 
brother, let the Bible be your textbook, Christ and the apostles 
your examples, their subjects your themes, the glory of God 
and the salvation of souls your great object. 






From Literary Productions, Sermons, Etc. 313 

"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example 
of the believers in word, in conversation, in charity, in faith, 
in purity. Give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doc- 
trine. Neglect not the gift that was given thee by prophecy 
with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate 
upon these things ; give thyself wholly to them." 

Many other duties than preaching devolve upon you as an 
elder, a bishop, an overseer, a shepherd, that the want of time 
will not allow me to discuss, not even to sum them up by name. 
But as the presentation of the Bible on this occasion also devolves 
upon me, I hand you this volume of God's word, which should 
be regarded as your only book of authority in regard to your 
religious duties and official obligations. Take it as the book of 
all books. It is not a sealed volume, but is open to all who would 
look therein. Take it as your guide and counselor. It is a store- 
house of divine wisdom. It is a garner of golden grain, no 
chaff about it. 

Men's books with heaps of chaff are stored, 
God's book doth golden grains afford; 
Beware of chaff and spend thy pains 
In gathering up the golden grains. 

May God, the Father, bless and keep you, the Holy Spirit 
comfort and strengthen you, and Christ, the Son, be ever present 
with you in the fulfillment of this declaration in the great com- 
mission under which you go forth, "Lo, I am with you alway, 
Amen." 

Western Baptist Preachers and Prairie Dogs 
(From Good Samaritan, April, 1885) 
When trains temporarily tarry at Texas towns, tired trav- 
elers are truly tempted, if not sorely tried, by the vehement 
voices of venders of victuals vociferously vying with each other: 



314 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"Fresh fruit pies?" "Sandwiches, ten cents!" "Hot coffee and 
lunch !" "Apples, five cents each, three for a dime \" 

Well used to the like o' this, this wayfaring wanderer in his 
wearisome work, having wended his way Westward, seriously 
sighed to have such sweet sounds salute his sensibilities as the 
train turned on to a side switch when the sun was slowly sinking 
and when the burly brakeman cried the station — "Sweet- 
water !" 

Hunger often sharpens the appetite and tunes the taste, and 
now the cry of "Fresh fruit pies," or anything else to eat, was 
what I longed to hear. See, yonder they come! Baskets and 
bundles and boxes, borne by bouncing boys, who come rushing, 
running, pushing, pressing passway to the platform. 

"Prairie dogs ! Prairie dogs for sale ! Prairie dogs, two bits 
apiece, two for a half dollar!" 

This dusty, drowsy disciple decided demurely to decline such 
delicacies, though the supply seemed sufficient for every human 
being in hearing to eat two dogs apiece. "Peep in and spy them, 
Mister, buy them, Mister!" 

"O my, what are the poor things ?" And with this interroga- 
tory a lady from the East tremblingly touched the little prison of 
two of these Western curiosities of the genus canis (so claimed 
by those who judge them as some do a tree — by its bark only). 
"Pretty pets, ma'm, pretty pets. Please buy 'em, one dog for 
a quarter, or two for four bits." "But," queries the gentle 
reader, "what likeness is there between prairie dogs and Baptist 
preachers in the West?" 

i. Prairie dogs love to congregate, and are numerous in 
some places, while there are entire counties where they are 
unknown. So with Baptist preachers. 

2. Some people are anxious to rid the country of prairie 
dogs, but all the same the dogs contend for their right to occupy 
it. So with the preachers. 

3. God has made prairie dogs free to choose and act for 



Address of Welcome 315 

themselves, and they maintain this right at all hazards. So with 
the preachers of the West, as well as everywhere else. 

4. Prairie dogs are not easily captured. It requires the 
most cunning devices to catch them. So with our Western 
preachers. If anyone thinks they are not awake and prepared 
to take care of themselves and keep that which has been com- 
mitted to them, he will find his hand open and his eagle free. 

5. Prairie dogs are not afraid of light or heat, yet they go 
deep for water and guide others to it. It is said that no matter 
how deep they have to go they never stop until they reach water, 
and that Western people are often guided by them in locating 
wells, knowing that water can be found at some depth where 
they burrow. So with our Baptist preachers. They go for 
water and show others the way. And though it is scarce in 
large districts in the West, they are sure to find enough of it. 

6. Prairie dogs have to scratch for their homes. So do our 
Western preachers (and all others for that matter). 



CHAPTER XL 



OUT OF THE ORDINARY 






In his thinking and doing, R. C. Buckner was often out of 
the ordinary. He delighted at times to make excursions entirely 
outside the great beaten highway. If we failed to note some of 
his by-path excursions, this book would not be complete. 

Leaf Like No Other Leaf.— -The writer heard Dr. Buckner 
say one day in a chapel talk : "If I were a leaf in the forest and 
should wake up to find that I was exactly like some other leaf, 
I would want a great wind to come and blow me away to some 
other part of the world." 

"A Midnight Wedding. — On December 31, 1900, one minute 
before midnight, Dr. Buckner began pronouncing the wedding 
ceremony that united in holy matrimony Mr. Henry Jones and 
Miss Roberta Coleman of Weather ford, Texas. The ceremony 
was begun in the nineteenth century and closed in the twentieth 
century." The foregoing is recorded in the county clerk's office 
in Weatherford. 

The bride was a daughter of Rev. and Mrs. L. W. Coleman 
and a granddaughter of Dr. Buckner. Beautiful notice was 
made of this unique marriage at the time in "The Baptist Stand- 
ard" by J. B. Cranfill, editor. It may be the only marriage 
ceremony in the annals of time that began in one century and 
finished in the next. 

Gold-headed Cane. — On the fiftieth anniversary of Doctor 
and Mrs. R. C. Buckner's marriage, Dr. J. B. Cranfill made Dr. 
Buckner a present of a beautiful ebony cane with gold head and 
appropriate inscription. Dr. Buckner valued the cane for its 
intrinsic worth, but more especially because it was a present from 

316 



Out of the Ordinary 317 

his friend. But could he use it? He had never walked with 
a cane. When his son, Rev. Hal F. Buckner, the youngest of 
his children, was ready to go to China as a missionary, he play- 
fully seized the cane and put it into his traveling trunk. The 
father, with a merry twinkle of his eye, said, "All right, my son, 
take it along. You will probably need it before your father 
will !" When the Doctor, after he was eighty years old, visited 
his son in China, he found the young man proud in the posses- 
sion of the cane, counting it of priceless value. But the octo- 
genarian doctor himself made the entire journey around the 
world without a cane. And when, a year afterwards, he had a 
cataract removed by surgical operation and was nearly blind 
for weeks, no one ever saw him walking with a cane. 

What Is a Dictionary ? — Living near Buckner Orphans Home 
was a most excellent and intelligent young lady whose name was 
Maggie McNeil. She was a careful student. It came to the 
knowledge of Dr. Buckner that this young lady in her studies 
possessed only a small dictionary, which had marks of long and 
constant use. A few days after this he surprised her with a 
large unabridged volume, on the flyleaf of which he had written 
the following: 

The Dictionary 

"A book of words, though not of deeds, 
A book for every one who reads, 
That each may understand each word, 
And speak, not blushing to be heard, 
And write aright in mother tongue, 
In prose prosaic, or in song." 

She prized the book above rubies. 

Never Fail on a Child. — Dr. Buckner was once asked by a com- 
mittee of ladies to give them some information about Buckner 
Orphans Home. His reply was laconic and pointedly significant. 
Note this excerpt: 



318 Life of R. C. Buckner 

"We never fail on a child, unless the child is naturally a 
failure itself or has been practiced on by others who do not 
know how to train a child until it has been switched off effectually 
from the right track." 

Baptising and Marrying. — It is evening of July 14, 1912. 
There are present in Buckner Home Chapel over 500 orphan 
children. A sermon from "Father Buckner" on "Following 
Jesus" falls like gentle dew into all hearts. The sermon is fin- 
ished. Six nice girls and a noble boy confess the Good Shep- 
herd and follow Him into the holy ordinance of baptism. And 
the seven youthful disciples come straightway up out of the 
water while the Home orchestra leads a hymn of praise to God. 
Father Buckner, who did the baptizing, remains standing in the 
baptismal font. Electric lights cast a sheen of splendor through- 
out the spacious chapel. The hymn is hushed. A young man 
and young woman approach. Who are they? All eyes in the 
temple are on them, and behold they are solemnly joined in 
God's holy institution of matrimony. They are Claude Bishop, 
a young business man of Dallas, and Essie Belle Anglyn, inmate 
of Buckner Orphans Home. Mr. Bishop was reared in the 
Home and now returns for his helpmeet. May their path be 
lengthened and bordered with flowers, even to sunny Eden. 

Exciting Opossum Hunt. — For years it was the custom of 
Mrs. N. H. McNeill and her benign daughter, Miss Maggie, to 
give Dr. Buckner an "Annual 'Possum Hunt" in their great 
Tanglewood Parks near Buckner Orphans Home. One of these 
hunts came when he was eighty years old. He was permitted 
to have some of his friends, and among them were young attor- 
neys from Dallas. It was night and the hunt a brilliant success. 
Recalling the vigor and the delight for the chase that belongs to 
youth, the Doctor climbed trees and either shook or with his own 
hand pulled from the limbs no less than seven of those wilderness 
denizens. And not a man of the company enjoyed the feast 
that followed more than he. 



Out of the Ordinary 319 

Nearing Eighty-tzvo, Baptising Eighty-seven. — On the even- 
ing of August 30, 1914, Dr. Buckner immersed eighty-seven of 
his children within thirty-five minutes. It was a deeply solemn 
service and baptizing was in the beautiful baptistery connected 
with the Home Chapel. For nearly two weeks he had been 
giving chapel "family talks" and "family sermons" to his chil- 
dren with results as stated. This number, with others approved 
but not baptized on that occasion, comprised nearly all the Home 
children old enough to understand and not already members of 
the church. It is not often that a preacher above eighty baptizes 
on one occasion more souls that he is years old. 

"Scrapographs." — For many years Dr. Buckner wrote week 
by week a number of concise, pithy and often keenly-pointed 
paragraphs, which he termed "Scrapographs." Reproduced here, 
they would occupy the space of this volume. Some selections 
are presented: 

Scrapographs 

No apology is offered for casting this word "scrapograph" 
in the mint. It will pass at par. It will serve its purpose for 
the introduction of scraps of things without falling into the 
ruts that old paragraphers have dug. The now popular heading, 
"News and Views," was cast in the same mint more than twenty 
years ago. More recently, "It is easier to do a big thing than 
a little thing anyhow," and "Without work it is impossible to 
please God." As to paternity, these are all of the same family, 
clever urchins adrift. "Scrapographs" will get into the later 
editions of the dictionary. 

These Scrapographs are not designed 
To tax or concentrate the mind. 
They mean to skip from thing to thing, 
Sometimes to reason, sometimes to sing, 
And yet on nothing dwell at length, 
For brevity's the soul of strength. 



320 Life of R. C. Buckner 

In former times our mothers made 

Scrapquilts for cold, cold weather, 
Took scraps of many shapes and shade 

And stitched them close together. 
The beauty of those quilts appeared 

In colors somewhat blended, 
And if a rent between occurred 

With ease it soon was mended. 

But in these Scrapographs, not so; 

Each "piece" remains divided; 
And as to "shade," you can but know 

No blending is provided. 
They're meant to ventilate the mind, 

To turn on rays of light, 
To help the thoughtful and refined, 

And guide the heart aright. 

Trust in the Lord, but do your level best. 

Despise not the day of small men ; they may grow , to be 
big men. 

Many a school in Texas has failed and sold its property. 
Buckner Home Academy has been educating children from its 
incipiency, and yet has no endowment to pay teachers. 

If your old age shall be fruitful, what shall the harvest be? 

Closing a letter, a writer says, "We belong to the church." 
Who can tell what he means? 

Spare your worst enemy, remembering that "Self-preserva- 
tion is the first law of nature!" 

Some are never satisfied except when dissatisfied, and they 
find their chief satisfaction in expressing their dissatisfaction. 

Necessity is the mother of activity. 

A wise head makes a still tongue. 

If you would bring in a good bag of game don't go out 
blindfolded, nor shoot at random. — A lesson for preachers. 



Out of the Ordinary 321 

A Midwinter Rosebush 
(At a Rosebush Reception) 

On this small bush no leaves are seen, 

And yet no root nor stem is dead. 
When summer comes, midst foliage green, 

It will display sweet roses red. 
So, though poor mortals, still shall rest, 

Like leafless stems in sterile sod, 
Yet they shall rise and with the blest 

Bloom in the Paradise of God. 

Bury all your troubles and plant flowers over their graves. 

If you are to engage in the business of "casting out motes" 
better stand before the looking-glass. 

Proper ecclesiastical nomenclature is an important desider- 
atum and should be substituted for a worldly-wise terminology. 
Paul puts it more laconically, saying, "Hold fast the form of 
sound words." 

Light literature lingers longest with Lilliputians. 

An idle brain is the home of discontent. 

"I'd marry any man that could pay the bills." — Mary M . 

That's the cause of many an unhappy marriage. 

Satan loves darkness rather than light, 

Because his imps assemble there; 
But oft he robes himself in white, 

Enters the church and leads the prayer. 
The hungry donkey brays for bread, 
And when he's fed no more is said, 
i The earnest Christian prays for bread; 
Bread is given and thanks are said. 

"What has become of the old-fashioned mother who had 
time to sew for her children ?" — "Snap Shots" in "Dallas News." 



322 Life of R. C. Buckner 

She is now taking care of three grandchildren while their own 
mother is at the theatre or the ball. 

Some speak thrice before thinking once — loquacity. 
Some think thrice before speaking once — sagacity. 

The M. D. and D. D. in Repartee 

"So many fools in the pulpit," exclaimed an M. D., 
As he looked round with scorn at a nearby D. D. 
As quick as swift thought came this cutting reply 
From the preacher sedate, with a laugh in his eye, 
"Yes, the pulpit hath fools and so hath the pew, 
Of fools there are many, of wise men but few ; 
Some fools wear the ermine, some run the drug store ; 
There are fools with the pill-bags, yes M. D.'s galore." 
The strength of a man's anger is often his greatest weakness. 
He who wastes time is the most reckless spendthrift. It may 
be poetical, but it is a waste of breath to cry out, "Backward, 
turn backward, O Time, in thy flight." 

These days the wife is often a man of her own head. In a 
marriage ceremony my father once said to the bride: "And do 
you promise to love and obey him in all things you think proper ?" 
Frances Willard quotes from an author whose name is too 
long and laborious for a Scrapograph this remarkable pessimistic 
misconception: "The youth of friendship is better than its old 
age." This is not true either in philosophy or in human expe- 
rience, and I have lived long enough to know it. True friendship 
grows and ripens with age and is sweeter when ripe. 

It is better in the social world, as well as in gardens, to plant 
roses rather than thorns. 

Take care of the body that the dwelling-place of the soul 
may be without blemish. 



CHAPTER XLI 



AROUND THE WORLD 



This tour was made in 19 13. The little select company con- 
sisted of "Father Buckner," his good wife, "Aunt Vi," and his 
namesake daughter, "Bobbie" (Mrs. T. L. Westerfield), and 
they toured by way of the setting sun and the Far East. Dr. 
Buckner was commissioned by the Foreign Mission Board of 
the Southern Baptist Convention to an important missionary con- 
ference in Canton, China, and to mission fields in the Orient. 
They went at their own charges, but were glad of the opportunity 
afforded to visit Rev. Hal F. Buckner, Th. D., and Robert E. 
Beddoe, M.D., missionaries in China, all of the "Buckner Col- 
only," which now consists of nine of his children and grand- 
children. 

Good-bye Sermon. — Sunday, March 9, 19 13, "Father Buck- 
ner" preached a Good-bye Sermon to his orphan children and his 
helpers on "Sending the Light." Then Rev. L. W. Coleman, 
Superintendent, Buckner Home Academy, was chosen acting 
pastor during Dr. Buckner's absence, J. L. Walker retaining his 
position as chaplain. Sunday evening Pastor Buckner baptized 
twenty-one of his orphan children, and on Wednesday evening 
following baptized six others, after which he administered the 
Lord's Supper. Thursday evening a musical reception was 
given in his honor by Mrs. L. W. Coleman's trained classes. 

Good-bye Talk in Manna Hall. — This came Friday morning, 
March 14, at breakfast. He said: "My Dear Children and 
Helpers : I am especially pleased. You came into Manna Hall 
so quietly and orderly that I had to inquire if you were all in. 
You know I do not see you distinctly. I go away to China, 

323 



324 Life of R. C. Buckner 

but I leave you in the hands of as good people as are in the 
world." 

Shower of Messages. — On the eve of his departure came 
such a shower of love messages as to tax Dr. Buckner to read 
them. 

F. M. McConnell, Dallas, corresponding secretary: "Our 
3»503 white Baptist churches in Texas believe the cause in 
China will be benefited by your counsel." 

Rev. L. R. Scarborough, Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas : "You 
go with the unbounded love of the Seminary." 

Rev. A. R. Griggs, colored minister, Dallas: "In the name 
of 2,444,055 colored Baptists of America I send greetings to the 
people in the Orient." There were many others. 

A farewell service in their honor was held in the First Baptist 
Church, Dallas. Pastor Truett preached a sermon full of pathos 
and tender reminiscences, and prayers were offered commending 
them to the grace of God, Then they faced toward the Orient, 
sending back this message: 

"We had a delightful trip from Dallas to San Francisco. 
Miss Ida Taylor, returning to her mission work in China, had 
preceded us two days. Telegrams and letters from friends and 
officials elsewhere brought good cheer. We are under thrilling 
gratitude to the President of the United States for having taken 
time in the midst of his pressing duties to dictate and append 
his own name to a letter of introduction to all diplomatic and con- 
sular officers of the Government ; to Hon. Wm. Jennings Bryan, 
Secretary of State, for special favors ; Hon. Chas. A. Culberson, 
Senator from Texas ; also Governor Colquitt of Texas, Mayor 
Holland of Dallas, Masonic fraternities and other orders. Glad 
to make special mention of Dr. George W. Truett in these mat- 
ters to Mrs. E. J. Kiest of Dallas, to Dr. and Mrs. G. T. Veal 
of New Mexico, Mrs. G. G. Wright, Mr. Alex. Sanger, Mrs. 
Charles Padgitt and Mr. and Mrs. Eli Sanger and many other 
good friends of Dallas and throughout the State." 



Around the World 325 

On Board the Shiny o Maru. — This Japanese ocean palace was 
called by the people of the Far East "the star ship of all trans- 
Pacific liners." It was the ocean home of Dr. Buckner and 
company for twenty-eight days, where they enjoyed the best 
modern conveniences, even to a daily newspaper with world news 
received by wireless telegraphy. On entering this ship at San 
Francisco they were thrilled to find great baskets and bouquets 
of flowers, fruits, sweets, books and "bon voyage" letters and 
telegrams. 

Hazuaii. — From the Golden Gate to Honolulu was seven 
clays. The Buckners were met by friends. Among these were 
Mrs. Edwards, daughter of Mr. T. J. Oliver of Dallas, the wife 
and daughter of Mr. A. A. Green of Dallas, and other friends, who 
made them at home in Hawaii. These friends courteously toured 
them to interesting points in the Island City, and about its 
glory-crowned environs. The rule of sentiment here, as in all 
lands of the setting sun, to encourage one religious denomination, 
the one in the ascendency and discourage all others, was looked 
on with the gravest concern. Returning to their ship, they were 
regaled by a profusion of floral offerings given by their Hawaiian 
friends. 

Japan. — It was a quick skip across the Pacific to Yokohama. 
Here a halt was made and the city "taken in" by 'rikisha. A trip 
by rail to Kamakura gave opportunity to visit a big bronze idol, 
the largest in this heathen country, 50 feet high. Said Dr. 
Buckner: "I went inside of this Buddha and climbed the stair- 
way in the middle of his body, up to his head, and found he had 
neither heart nor brains, though he has stood there a thousand 
years for people to worship." 

On invitation, a run was made to Tokyo, where Dr. Buckner 
looked in on the famous John R. Mott Missionary Conference, 
which was then in session. It was also his joy while there to 
visit the Baptist Theological Seminary. He also visited Kobe 
and Nagasaki, "where," said he, "the Japs called me 'papa' be- 



326 Life of R. C. Buckner 

cause of my white head and beard." The beloved missionary, 
E. N. Walne of Fukuoka, whose mother lives in Dallas, showed 
Dr. Buckner many courtesies while in Japan. In a communica- 
tion in "The Baptist Standard" of October 3, 1913, Dr. Buckner 
thus gives his impressions of the far-off Island Empire: "Idol- 
atry is waning, but it still has a strong hold on the multitude. 
With 70,000 Christians there are yet 43,000,000 heathen. Some 
of the finest buildings I visited were idol temples. One at Naga- 
saki is approached by a broad flight of stone steps. Here are 
many pots filled with the bones of ancestors, and people are wor- 
shipping. With the Christian religion substituted for idolatry 
and added to their intelligence, skill, industry and enterprise, this 
nation would soon become an earthly paradise. Baptists have a 
responsibility in Japan and in all other fields, which I thus 
express: World-wide philanthropy, universal Christian fellow- 
ship, and loyalty to Christ in all things." 

On East China Sea. — (Letter to wards and workers of Buck- 
ner Orphans Home — Condensed.) "April 15, 191 3. Good morn- 
ing to everybody in Manna Hall. We are out in the middle of 
East China Sea. I have been sleeping and dreaming of a good 
breakfast in Manna Hall. The whistle of the fog-horn woke 
me. The deep ocean fog often shuts out everything from view. 
The loud steam fog-horn is to warn other vessels lest there be 
a collision sending everybody to the bottom, where the whales 
play hide and seek. We enjoy every hour of our journey. There 
are no little girls in my room to keep me from being lonesome, 
but the waves sing to me and at night the billows rock me into 
deep repose. 

(Stopped writing because a ship was passing; then for tiffin- 
see your dictionary.) 

"Now we are passing Formosa. Do you recall the kind of 
tea grown on this celebrated island? 

(Interrupted again to give list of trunks and other baggage to 
purser for customhouse inspection at Manila.) 



Around the World 327 

"Be good, my children, each to the other and one to all. 
Your same old affectionate Father Buckner." 

At Manila, after spending a day seeing jungle life, Dr. Buck- 
ner and party were taken in charge by Lieutenant Beaumont B. 
Buck, who was raised in Dallas and who showed them Fort 
McKinley, where he was in command, and toured them to many 
noted points. Governor Crawford, reared in Philadelphia, also 
showed them courtesies and proposed to have Dr. Buckner jour- 
ney with him to Pompeii and other celebrated points in the Orient. 
He assured Dr. Buckner that the Moros wanted the United 
States to continue in the Philippines, fearing oppression should 
the Government be turned over to "Filipinos." The hand of the 
United States Government in the Philippines was clearly that 
of a benefactor, feeding, clothing, educating. Of the Protestant 
faiths, the Episcopal denomination alone had any countenance 
in Manila. Because sentiment thus enthroned Episcopalianism 
intelligent Baptists and other Protestant people had their lights 
under a bushel. 

Rev. Hal F. Buckner of Canton met his father, mother and 
sister at Manila, and together they journeyed to Hong Kong and 
Canton. Dr. Buckner shall tell it: "I was thrilled with the 
first sight of the towering hills about Hong Kong. Here stands 
Victoria Hospital, munificently endowed, where all patients are 
treated gratis. We move up Pearle River and are in an hour 
of Canton. Houseboats crowd about us, a city of houseboats. 
A launch is by our side. On it we see familiar faces, son Hal's 
wife and their sweet children. Other faces smile with welcome, 
and now we are with them in the launch. Introductions : 'This 
is Brother R. E. Chambers of the China Baptist Publication So- 
ciety, and this is his launch. This is Brother P. H. Anderson, 
president of the Graves Theological Seminary at Canton.' The 
launch veers around and we land in front of the China Baptist 
Publishing House. It is yet a mile to the Baptist Mission Com- 
pound by pathway not wide enough for 'rikisha. We walk, 



328 Life of R. C. Buckner 

and now presently stop for breakfast in the missionary home of 
my dear children." 

Mission Compound. — The Baptist Mission Compound at Can- 
ton consists of sixteen brick buildings, a boys' academy, a girls' 
school, a school for Bible women, a primary school, a school for 
blind girls, the celebrated Graves Theological Seminary, and the 
homes of the missionaries. Dr. Buckner visited all the mission- 
aries and teachers, addressed them in their chapel, conducted 
prayer services in their homes and in all the schools. He visited 
the orphans' home, and rinding it embarrassed with a debt of 
$500, wrote an appealing letter to his friend, T. H. Ellett of 
Richmond, Virginia, who promptly contributed the entire amount, 
lifting the debt. Dr. Buckner offered prayer at the dedication 
of the property of the China Baptist Publication Society, while 
the United States consul at Canton sat as chairman. 

Dr. Buckner was delighted with the good work being done 
by the Graves Theological Seminary. In this school his own 
son, Hal, holds a professorship, and a graduate of Baylor Uni- 
versity, P. H. Anderson, is its president. There were about 
100 students. "Seminary Hill," a choice site named for "Semi- 
nary Hill," Fort Worth, Texas, had been purchased as the future 
home of the Seminary. In a tomb found on this hill was 
unearthed a large bowl, exquisitely embellished, thought to be 
above 3,000 years old, as the embellishments belong to the "pre- 
dragon age." The bowl was donated to the "A. J. Holt Museum" 
at Buckner Orphans Home. It is almost of priceless value. 
When Dr. Buckner afterwards visited London and the British 
Museum it was found that there was nothing like it in that 
colossal collection. The British Museum would have been very 
glad to add this bowl to its collection. 

Baptist Missionary Conference. — It was to this Conference 
that Dr. Buckner was accredited by the Southern Baptist Foreign 
Mission Board. Many fields were represented. R. E. Chambers 
and P. H. Anderson, both of Canton, were elected president 



Around the World 329 

and secretary. Grave matters were considered, such as "Baptist 
Opportunities," "Organic Church Union" (with others), "Coop- 
eration with Other Denominations." Resolutions were offered, 
highly flavored with pro-union sentiment, especially as respects 
evangelistic effort and educational work. Interest became intense. 
A resolution was offered that meant the hunt for a Chinese word 
that would translate the Greek word for baptism in a way to suit 
all denominations. Dr. Buckner suggested this amendment: 
"But such word must be a correct translation of the word used 
by our Lord and illustrated by Him in His own baptism in the 
Jordan." A voice : "Such amendment should be made." After 
brief discussion, all resolutions were withdrawn. Then other 
resolutions were passed setting forth love for all Christian peo- 
ple and a willingness to cooperate with them in things practicable, 
without compromising Baptist principles and without disloyalty 
to Christ. 

Sightseeing In Canton. — The city was "taken in" by sedan 
chairs and 'rikishas. On the way from the Baptist Mission Com- 
pound to the heart of the city is a tomb supposed to be 3,000 
years old. The tomb of some royal person, possibly. A broad 
avenue leads to it, guarded on either side by huge stone figures 
of gigantic size. They are in pairs and face each other across the 
avenue. First are two lions crouching, then two lions standing, 
then at some distance two camels kneeling, and again two camels 
standing, then horses with riders by their sides ; further, soldiers 
with swords, and again two immense turtles with swords thrust 
through their backs. At the end of the long avenue is the granite 
tomb. Strange characters are carved on it that no one can 
decipher. The "City of the Dead," which is an acre enclosed in 
high walls, was visited, where in a room were many idols. Some 
were very large with heavy black beards. They were standing 
guard. The walks between the tombs and buildings were crooked 
in order that the "devils" seeking the dead might get lost in the 
crooked ways. 



330 Life of R. C. Buckner 

The city of Canton was found to have very narrow, crowded 
streets, some of the cross streets barely wide enough for people 
to pass single file. A woman seated flat on the cement street is 
sewing. She will sew a button on your vest or do other work 
while you wait. Coolies carry all freight, whether heavy or 
light. Six women carry a boxed piano. Coolies rush by, utter- 
ing a peculiar loud grunt, notifying the multitudes that they must 
make room for travelers borne on sedan chairs. At market places 
are offered chickens, pork, live earthworms by the buckets full, 
snakes moving and squirming in glass jars, most anything the 
appetite might call for. Near the palace of the "scholar" stands 
a tall pole with circle shelves around it, indicating the number of 
degrees of his "scholarship," which consists mainly in his ability 
to recite and explain the wonderful national traditions. Before 
the scholar's house is a huge picture of the great mythical dragon 
with his mouth wide open and swallowing the moon. As it is 
swallowed, the dark of the moon comes on. 

Interior China. — In company with his son Hal and Dr. R. E. 
Chambers, Dr. Buckner visited the interior of China as far as 
Wuchow. The journey to Wuchow was immensely enjoyed. In 
a letter to his biographer, he says : "Dr. Chambers is owner of the 
splendid motor boat on which we ride, talk, read, sightsee, eat 
and sleep. My son looks after the table supplies and I am the 
highly favored boarder and honored guest. We have Chinese for 
engineer, cook and pilot. We cast anchor at night and the great 
North River rocks us to sleep." At Shiu Hing they visited Miss 
H. F. North's mission, consisting of a large school and church 
with native pastor. Dr. Buckner preached while Dr. Chambers 
interpreted. At the close twelve persons rose wishing to become 
Christians. At Wuchow he preached and delivered addresses. 
Whenever he preached he entered a plea for the elevation of 
motherhood, the betterment of child life and the protection of 
girlhood. This was appreciated. One man was so well pleased 
that he went away, procured an ancient wooden idol and sent it 











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Around the World 331 

by hand 240 miles to Dr. Buckner. That idol is now in the 
museum at Buckner Orphans Home. 

Dr. Buckner was especially gratified with the work of his 
son as teacher in the Seminary at Canton and of his grandson, 
Dr. Robert E. Beddoe, in charge of the Mission Medical Dis- 
pensary at Yingtak. Native preachers by scores and hundreds 
are trained in the Seminary to preach the gospel of salvation to 
their own people. In the dispensary at Yingtak above 1,500 
patients are treated annually. 

Homeward. — After a stay in China of forty-eight days, the 
Buckner party turned their faces homeward, continuing in the 
way of the setting sun. Singapore, Peneng, Columbo, Aden, 
Suez, Port Said, Naples, St. Helena, Genoa, Algiers, Gibraltar, 
Southampton and London were along the route. They had very 
pleasant traveling companions, including a number of experienced 
world tourists. On the wide Indian Ocean, on the Red Sea and 
the Mediterranean there were missionaries on vacations from 
Corea, Ceylon, Java, Borneo and other fields. They had songs 
and prayers and sermons. Dr. Buckner based a sermon on "God's 
Great Love," and emphasized the point that "the oceans deep 
and broad illustrate and demonstrate both the depth and breadth 
of the love of God." He had very marked attention. 

On the Red Sea they were interested to meet the governor 
of Port Said, an Egyptian of high caste. With him was his 
wife, who was an Arabian princess; their daughter, an English 
governess, and a Russian valet. The little girl said : "I want to 
be white. I think I will go to London and get white. I don't 
want to be black. When I am thirteen I shall have to wear a veil. 
I don't want to wear a veil." Dr. Buckner said she was bronze. 

While on the Red Sea, Dr. Buckner wrote to his orphan chil- 
dren: "We crossed the path along which the Israelites passed 
through dry-shod, and right over where Pharaoh, his army, his 
horses and chariots were drowned, though nothing indicated 
the exact place. We are traveling in sight of the wilderness 



332 Life of R. C. Buckner 

where the Lord sent down manna from heaven and fed Israel. 
Off to our left is the land of Goshen, where the Israelites had 
plenty of milk and butter. We have passed elephants and camels 
in full view. I have seen coffee trees, India rubber trees, cocoa- 
nut trees and many other interesting things." Dr. Buckner longed 
to take side trips into Egypt and Palestine, but it was deemed 
unwise to do so on account of danger from plague. Experienced 
travelers and the captain protested. 

London. — Britain's proud city was seen through and through, 
above ground and under ground. In Westminster Abbey, Dr. 
Buckner was profoundly interested as he wandered among the 
tombs and read the inscriptions. He worshipped at various Lon- 
don churches and met many notable pastors and others of the 
Lord's saints. He especially kept in memory an evening service 
at the Welch Baptist Church. It was a communion service. After 
the communion he was invited to deliver an address. His mes- 
sage was received with hearty "Amens," and at its close many 
pressed forward to shake his hand. "Do you know," asked a 
deacon, "who it was that first greeted you? It was the Right 
Honorable Lloyd George, Lord Chancellor of the Exchequer." 

This paragraph appeared in the "British Weekly" of August 
14, 1913 : "We had a visit on Monday afternoon from Dr. R. C. 
Buckner, president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. 
He is in his eighty-first year, is touring the world and has vis- 
ited many mission fields in China and other countries. He has 
been a Baptist minister sixty-four years, and during the last 
thirty-four years has been president of Buckner Orphans Home 
at Dallas." 

Of course, Dr. Buckner saw the Stockwell Orphanage. He 
says : "A good impression is made on first sight. The buildings, 
which are of brick, face each other from four sides of a square. 
Convenient walks are provided, and the plot or square inside 
is planted between walks with grass, trees, shrubbery and flow- 
ers. The beds are plain iron, with slats of this metal for 



Around the World 333 

the support of the bedding and the weight of little bodies. Rooms 
are lighted with electricity and water is supplied by the city. A 
steam laundry is run altogether by hired help. What we call a 
grammar school education is given to all who can and will receive 
it. I have seldom spent happier hours than at this blessed 
institution. The Metropolitan Tabernacle makes much of the 
children of the orphanage. They have them in the Sunday school 
and give them convenient seats at the other services. Some of 
them are in the choir. I love Mr. Spurgeon's old church for 
this." Dr. Buckner worshipped with this Metropolitan Taber- 
nacle congregation and greatly enjoyed it. 

Home. — A pleasant sail from London to New York, then to 
Galveston, and presently Dr. Buckner and party are home, hale 
and happy and exchanging greetings with their friends. He is 
expected to tell of his trip in the First Baptist Church in Dallas, 
which he does before a crowded house. And presently "Father 
Buckner" has a big welcome at Buckner Orphans Home. Then 
follows a unique baptismal service in which an aged saint of 
eighty-four years, a blind sister of thirty-five, a lady helper, two 
young men and two boys were baptized by Dr. Buckner in the 
Home Chapel baptistery. They were waiting his return. 



CHAPTER XLII 



CLOSING INCIDENTS 



Pursuant to the purpose announced at the session of the 
Baptist General Convention of Texas which met in 19 13 at Dallas, 
Dr. B. C. Buckner declined to allow his name to be presented for 
re-election to the office of president of the convention when it 
met at Abilene, November 19, 19 14. He called the convention 
to order in that happy manner which had characterized his ad- 
ministration for more than twenty years, and announced that 
the election of a president was then in order. Dr. S. P. Brooks, 
the very capable and much loved president of Baylor Univer- 
sity, was nominated by Rev. F. S. Groner, and was unanimously 
elected to succeed Dr. Buckner. 

Following this election, Dr. Buckner placed his hand upon 
the head of Dr. Brooks and gave him his blessing. 

This closed the longest administration of any president of any 
Texas Baptist general body known in our history. Through all 
the years, dating from the Marshall Convention in 1894 and 
closing with the Abilene Convention of 1914, Dr. Buckner had 
presided with masterful skill, grace and ability. When he finally, 
and of his own volition, and greatly to the regret of thousands 
of the brotherhood, laid the gavel down, there passed from the 
office of president of the great Texas Baptist body one of the 
choicest spirits ever known among this or any other people. 

Immediately following the brief valedictory address of Dr. 
Buckner, resolutions were introduced by Rev. W. A. Hamlett, 
of Austin, Texas, and unanimously adopted, as follows : 

Whereas, Dr. R. C. Buckner has for these many years been 
our President, and 

Whereas, during these years, some of which have been the 

334 



Closing Incidents 335 

most crucial in our history, his rulings have been marked by 
wisdom, equity and Christian consideration, and 

Whereas, it is at his request that he be relieved from the ex- 
acting duties of the presidency of this Convention, therefore, 

Be it resolved, that our unfeigned gratitude be here and now 
extended him for his faithful service during these past years of 
his office and that our tenderest love go with him throughout 
his days. 

After the adoption of these resolutions, the great audience, 
at the suggestion of Dr. J. B. Cranfill, arose and with the heartiest 
accord gave Dr. Buckner the Chautauqua salute. Rarely in any 
religious body in Texas has there been witnessed such a scene of 
good wishes and good cheer as greeted the great Buckner upon 
this occasion. 

On Thursday night of the Convention the order of exercises, 
as has been the case for many years, was the reading of Dr. R. 
C. Buckner's report on the Buckner Orphans Home. Before he 
submitted his report he read the following brief statement to the 
body: 

"It is in my mind as President and General Manager of Buck- 
ner Orphans Home to tender its entire property and control to 
the Baptist General Convention of Texas pending the comple- 
tion of plans and of improvements for which contributions have 
been made and are now being formulated. 

"This would, of course, have to be done in such satisfactory 
way as would protect the vital points of the charter and by-laws 
and in loyalty to all friends who have made donations for spe- 
cific purposes, stated or clearly understood. And for my part, I 
do not care how soon such transfer shall be made on the condi- 
tions herein expressed. This must not be interpreted as indicat- 
ing any doubt of the continual and greater growth* of this insti- 
tution nor of any modification of my personal entire satisfaction 
with the principles, purposes, plans or management under which 
its wonderful success has been attained. Nor must it be inferred 



336 Life of R. C. Buckner 

from this that I am in the least tired of the work or have any 
disposition to lay it down." 

No announcement ever made to a Texas general body created 
such a sensation as was precipitated by the reading of the fore- 
going tender of the greatest orphan property in the world. 

Immediately following this remarkable offer which the heroic 
President and General Manager of the Buckner Orphans Home 
so whole-heartedly presented, he proceeded with the reading of 
his annual report in which was incorporated an inventory of all 
of the property owned by the Buckner Orphans Home. A sum- 
mary of the inventory is herewith given as follows : 

Lands at Country Site $262,800.00 

Lands and lots elsewhere 100,725.00 

Improvements at Country Site 310,456.00 

Endowment notes (gilt-edge) 14,683.00 

Vendor lien notes (gilt-edge) 1 > 1 33-39 

Farm stock 9,51500 

Farm machinery 1,100.00 

Grand Total $700,412.39 

All paid for, clear titles, and no kind of encumbrance. 

The matter of the details covering this offer and its ac- 
ceptance by the Convention was submitted to a committee, and 
the committee reported back to the body on Saturday evening. 
The resolutions which were read by Rev. George W. Truett, were 
as follows: 

"We, your Committee, appointed to make response to the 
generous and noble proposition, to place in the hands of the 
Baptist General Convention of Texas the properties and con- 
trol of Buckner Orphans Home as set forth in the written state- 
ment of Dr. R. C. Buckner, read to the Convention and handed 
to your Committee, submit the following : 

"Whereas, Buckner Orphans Home, as an institution, has 



Closing Incidents 337 

made a generous tender of its extensive properties, as set forth 
in the Annual Report of its President and General Manager, R. 
C. Buckner, made at this Convention, Thursday evening, No- 
vember 19, 1914, and a tender of its management to the Baptist 
General Convention of Texas ; and 

"Whereas, this Convention recognizes the unparallelled suc- 
cess of this great institution in its business affairs, and its ac- 
cumulation and utilization of so much valuable property, always 
protected by its charter ; while at the same time it has provided for 
and trained, each year, a large family of orphan children and 
other dependents, under the same charter and the provisions of its 
By-Laws ; be it hereby 

"Resolved i. That we would not challenge the wisdom and 
beneficence of the Divine Providence that has sustained and 
otherwise blessed this Christly institution, from its very be- 
ginning; 

"Resolved 2. That we would not dare lay hands on God's 
own anointed institution in the way of any kind of interference 
or hindrance ; but only to bless, to encourage and to help. 

"Resolved 3. That we accept that which has been tendered 
to us, in the same spirit of confidence, loyalty and love with 
which it has been offered; and that in such acceptance we sol- 
emnly pledge that the principles and purposes set forth in its 
Charter and By-Laws shall ever be held by us as sacred and in- 
violable. 

"Resolved 4. That hereafter, as heretofore, all lands, be- 
quests, donations, gifts and contributions of any and every kind, 
now held or that may be acquired by Buckner Orphans Home, 
shall be held, appropriated and used for the purposes of the in- 
stitution and its wards, and in the interest of no other institu- 
tion, enterprise or person, whatever or whomsoever. 

"Resolved 5. That from twenty-seven brethren annually 
nominated by this Convention, a Board of Directors of Buckner 
Orphans Home shall be selected and authorized, under and ac- 



338 Life of R. C. Buckner 

cording to the provisions of its Charter and By-Laws, and shall 
be recognized, adopted, appointed and authorized by the Con- 
vention as its own committee, to look into and after the work, 
and to make report each year to this Convention at its annual 
session; the report to be subject to discussion and to be acted on 
and spread upon our minutes, as any other report that may come 
before us for our consideration. 

"Resolved, in conclusion, That the Convention will ever 
heartily rejoice in every degree of betterment, enlargement, pros- 
perity and efficiency that may come at any and all times to this, 
our very own Buckner Orphans Home." 

The submission of these resolutions was accompanied by a 
brief, soulful address by Dr. Truett, who was followed by Hon. 
O. S. Lattimore, of Fort Worth, and Rev. Forrest Smith, of 
Sherman. Never in the history of the Texas Baptist General 
Convention has such a scene been witnessed as followed the 
final consummation of this new alignment of the Baptist Gen- 
eral Convention of Texas with the Buckner Orphans Home. 
After the speeches by the other brethren, Dr. R. C. Buckner came 
forward at the call of the Convention and, in his own pathetic 
eloquence, placed the seal of his personal approval on all that had 
been done. The grand leader and soldier of the cross never 
loomed quite so large in all of his life before as he did on that 
eventful night. Every one present who had ever doubted his 
monumental greatness was on that evening convinced that he 
deserved to forever bear the sobriquet of the Texas Baptist 
Gladstone. 

Let it be borne in mind that this vast property, aggregating 
over seven hundred thousand dollars in value, without a cent of 
indebtedness and with money to its credit in the bank, thus in a 
shorter time than is here taken in its recital, became the prop- 
erty of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. The inaugu- 
ration and growth of this wonderful enterprise has hitherto been 
told in this volume, but no words could adequately portray the 



Closing Incidents 339 

spirit of the historic occasion to which reference has just been 
made. 

All hearts were touched. There were men present who had 
known and loved R. C. Buckner through many eventful years. 
It was truthfully said by Geo. W. Truett that R. C. Buckner 
was the last remaining hero of that immortal trio, composed of 
Burleson, Carroll and Buckner. The other two have gone home, 
and now the faithful soldier who has been spared to us crowned 
his career as General Manager of the Buckner Orphans Home 
by giving over the great plant to the Baptist General Convention 
of Texas. Of course, those who are informed know that the 
Buckner Orphanage has been a Baptist institution from the 
start, and the steps which had been taken in its creation, main- 
tenance and exploitation have been told in preceding chapters. 
Now the institution became a child of the Baptist General Con- 
vention of Texas. The question arose in some of the addresses 
made as to whether or not the child should be adopted by the 
convention or married to the convention. On all hands, how- 
ever, it seemed to be agreed that the Buckner Orphans Home had 
become the adopted child of the Baptist General Convention of 
Texas and heir to all the rights, interest, love, sympathy, affection 
and care of the great Baptist family of Texas. 

It is fitting now that this chronicle shall come to a close. The 
writer and the reader alike take leave of this biography with 
deepest love and affection. Our hero is now eighty-two years old. 
He has lived a life of usefulness in its every relation that has 
never been outstripped in the annals of our Texas citizenship. No 
man in any walk of life has quite matched R. C. Buckner when 
all of the factors that have entered into the warp and woof of 
his great career are sanely measured. As this book ends, we 
leave him standing at the very pinnacle of his marvelous career, 
loved by his own denominational brotherhood with a quenchless 
love, and so deeply intrenched in their hearts that they will cherish 
and revere his name forever. 



340 Life of R. C. Buckner 

Not only is this true of the Baptist brotherhood, but it is true 
of all the people of the great State of Texas and the South who 
have had the pleasure of coming into either remote or intimate 
relationship with this great, good man. All the bankers love 
him and trust him. All the business men believe in him. All 
the large-hearted men and women of the state honor him for the 
wonderful work he has achieved in building up and fostering an 
institution without a parallel in the Western Hemisphere. 

R. C. Buckner, in this closing scene of this biography, has set 
an example for all his brethren and all men everywhere that 
they would do well to take deeply to heart. He did not wait to 
become feeble in mind or body, or to die and leave this Buckner 
Orphans Home estate unsettled. As to his personal estate, long, 
long ago, he parted with all of the property he ever had except a 
lot in Oakland Cemetery. That is all the land he owns and it is all 
he will ever need, but he has settled up his affairs in connection 
with Buckner Orphans Home in a wonderfully business-like 
Christian way and has given that institution to the care of the 
men whom he had loved and with whom he had labored through 
his long and eventful life. He took no chances by making a will, 
as many men do, thus leaving the orphans to unfriendly hands. 
Many have left to courts and juries the disposition of estates that 
if they had been administered by the ones who owned them while 
their hearts beat warm in their bosoms, would have gone directly 
to the objects for which they were intended. Dr. R. C. Buckner 
made no such mistake as this, but has now gloriously consum- 
mated a relationship that makes for the greatest good and great- 
est usefulness of the Orphans Home and which augurs its most 
hopeful expansion. 

In one of his books, David Copperfield, we believe, Charles 
Dickens expresses a pathetic regret that on account of the end- 
ing of the volume he had to part with those children of his brain 
who had illumined the pages of his volume. If this great writer 
of fiction felt sad when he thus laid down his pen and bade 



Closing Incidents 341 

good-bye to these shadowy friends of his heart, the reader hereof 
will not wonder that this writer closes his task as one of the 
authors of this volume with most poignant regret. It has been 
a joy through the unfolding of the life of the great R. C. Buck- 
ner, to walk with him, to linger near him, to breathe the incense 
of his greatness and the fragrance of his love. Now that the last 
words of this biography are being penned there is a tugging at 
the heart that we shall be denied the privilege of walking further 
in these pages in the journey of life with R. C. Buckner. 

A great man is he. Back across the track of four-score and 
two years, his eagle eye can glance with gratitude and joy, and as 
he looks ahead, there is naught but golden sunshine to light up 
his pathway. Through all the years that he shall remain on earth 
he will still be with the great family of orphans who delight to 
love and honor him. He will still be Father Buckner. They will 
rejoice at his presence with them, will listen to his voice as he 
preaches the glorious gospel of the Blessed Christ and will catch 
the inspiration of his great good life and then, be the time long 
or short, when his earthly tasks are done he will lay himself down, 
not to die, but to take leave of time and all the things of earth 
and wake up in that glory world whither so many of his loved 
ones and co-workers have gone on before. 

Happy man! Golden hearted servant of the Lord! Heroic 
soldier of the cross ! Tenderly eloquent preacher of God's grace ! 
Leonine leader of the hosts of Zion ! Great manager and financier 
of holy funds ! Prophet, seer, philanthropist and friend, he has 
taken the long look and finds himself in the celestial glory of 
his crowning years, loved, honored, revered and trusted by all. 

Such a life as his, dear reader, is one to thrill and inspire us, 
every one, and as we measure our own poor lives by that of R. C. 
Buckner, may it be given to each and all of us to strive to emulate 
his noble deeds and, as best we may, enjoy a part at least of the 
wonderful usefulness that has been his. 



AFTERWORD 



Our Afterword is a presentation of park views and other 
views — Buckner Orphans Home. 

Here are fifty acres of glades and green woods, cedars and 
hawthorne, hackberry, persimmon, oak, elm, ash, grapevine, rattan 
vine and tangle wood. Here are hills, high creek banks, green 
fields, wild flowers, gravelly knolls, places for sliding and places 
for wading, everything to make it attractive to the lovers of 
nature and to gleeful children. 

The pictures, with rhythmical descriptions by R. C. Buckner, 
give a fair view of some of the beauties of the orphans' most 
lovely playgrounds, and of the substantial improvements. 

There is also Crescent Park, equal in acreage and" beauty to 
Vienna Park, and Nursery Park, close in for the wee folks, but 
not here represented. 



342 




IN VIENNA PARK— BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 



INDIAN CREEK. 

No crowded street nor dismal den 

Nor dust nor dirt nor fiery drink. 
Where idle boys and reckless men 

Drift downward over ruin's brink ; 
But vines and swings, and hidden nooks, 

Great spreading elms and grass plots green 
Creek banks and bluffs and mighty rocks 

A park as lovely as you've seen. 
IJ4U 




IN VIENNA PARK — BUCKXER ORPHANS HOME 



Vienna Park! The children's joy, 
Where every orphan girl and boy 
Delights to wander 'midst the trees, 
And breathe the fragrant passing breeze. 
The odors sweet from sweet wild flow'rs 
And fresh from plum and hawthorne bow'rs. 
They love to slide down steep hillsides, 
And wade, barefoot, where winding glides 
The clear, cool stream o'er smooth white rocks, 
Then scamper through the woods like flocks 
Of sheep and lambs and fleet wild goats, 
In breezes cool where ozone floats. 
God bless the boys! God bless the girls! 
Those shout their joys, these spoil their curls. 
But back at home, they rest that night 
And rise next morn at dawn of light, 
Refresh'd, and feeling new-born joys — 
These hopeful girls, these manly boys. 

344 




IN VIENNA PARK— BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 



You may sing of the fairies in the dark wood, 
And of frolicsome sprites in the dense wood, 
You may paint magical scenes in the dim wood, 
And flowers and festoons in the damp wood, 
But these orphan girls playing in their own wood, 
Are as cunning as fairies in the wild wood ; 
They are fanciful as sprites in the swamp wood, 
And as flow'rs and festoons in the green wood. 

345 




GIRLS AT LUNCH IN VIENNA PARK— BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 

They care not for tables with tapestry spread, 
Around which to enjoy their plain meat and bread; 
With forks made of sticks, on coals they broil meat, 
Then with slices of bread they heartily eat. 




BOYS AT LUNCH IN VIENNA PARK— BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 

348 




BEAUTIFUL VIENNA P ARK— BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 



ORPHAN GIRLS CLIMBING TREES. 

No fruit forbidden on these trees, 

Else these young girls would not dare climb. 
Up there they catch the fresh, cool breeze, 

While keeping hold of bending limb. 

Up there their merry voices ring, 
Remote from critic's gazing eyes, 

As larks themselves more sweetly sing, 
The nearer they approach the skies. 
347 




THE BOYS' MAIN BUILDING, 110 BY 130 FEET— BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 



348 




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ONE OF THE DORMITORIES— BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME 



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THE MOTHERS' BUILDING FOR MOTHERLESS BABIES— BUCKNER ORPHANS 

HOME 



359 



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